ICE CONTAMINATION

The pilot-in-command is responsible for ensuring that the aeroplane complies with the CAC prior to take-off. The first check, the "contamination check", is the walk-around or pre-flight check, normally accomplished by the ground or flight crew. The aeroplane critical surfaces, fuselage, landing gear and other components should be checked for ice, snow, slush or frost. If ice, snow, slush or frost is discovered, a de-icing followed by an anti-icing programme must be carried out.

After the de-icing and anti-icing procedures are performed, a check must be conducted to ensure that the treated surfaces are no longer contaminated. This check is made visually immediately following the application of de-icing/anti-icing fluids and is carried out by a qualified person. This check should include any part of the aeroplane on which a de-icing/anti-icing treatment was performed according to the requirements during the contamination check.

Finally, the pre-take-off check, which is the responsibility of the pilot-in-command, must be performed which continuously ensures that the weather conditions are those considered for the HOT determination and an assessment as close to the time of take-off as possible to confirm that the HOT has not been exceeded.