Background of the Problem

The development of specific solutions to counteract aircraft icing has been a difficult process to manage in recent years. In response to the mechanical problems associated with the failure to deice aircraft efficiently and effectively, it is likely that additional measures must be explored that will improve outcomes associated with aircraft deicing in the appropriate manner.  Strategies for aircraft deicing must consider a variety of chemical-based methods that are applied to the aircraft in different areas to accomplish the desired objectives. Problems associated with a failure to deice in the appropriate manner have been reported in a number of high-profile aircraft accidents, and have been instrumental in shaping different strategic methods that are designed to improve aircraft mechanical performance. These methods, the potential causes of deicing failures, and the increased risk of accidents must be explored in greater detail to promote improved outcomes in this area (Air Safety Foundation).

History

A variety of deicing techniques have evolved and are typically comprised of chemical-based alternatives, due to their convenience and relative ease of use. These methods have been successful in their efforts to effectively deice aircraft prior to takeoff during inclement weather, but the lack of an error-free track record warrants further consideration. As a researcher, it is necessary to develop a more precise understanding of the different areas involving the routine deicing of aircraft that warrant further evaluation, since this process requires a precise combination of factors to achieve effective results. As technology has expanded its scope in the 21^st Century, there have been significant strides in aircraft deicing techniques and related efficiencies. However, at the same time, the risks associated with the chemicals that are used to deice aircraft remain high. Finally, from a historical perspective, “In the 15-yr period prior to 1993, snow and ice accumulation on a wing prior to takeoff was identified by the National Transportation Safety Board as factors in seven domestic, Part-121 takeoff-icing accidents and one incident. Part-121 operators are the major air carriers. These eight accidents/incidents resulted in 142 fatalities and an estimated economic cost of $458 million (1995 dollars) in terms of fatalities, injuries, aircraft damage, and government investigations” (Rasmussen et.al, 2001, p. 593). Therefore, it is essential that the appropriate aircraft deicing decisions must be made to ensure that deicing is successful in reducing aircraft accidents (Rasmussen et.al, 2001).

Researcher’s Work Setting and Role

My ongoing knowledge and exposure to aircraft study provides me with a basis for improving my knowledge as related to this subject area. I also possess a strong interest in aircraft design and capabilities that has been a hobby of mine for many years. Therefore, I believe that there are significant patterns of growth and development within my own realm of knowledge that are significant to this research study, and that will also provide me with the elements that are necessary to support successful research and results in this area. Therefore, my background and education to date serve as a strong basis in my ability to support effective research outcomes within this area of study. My own interest in aircraft and the role of atmospheric elements in this area demonstrate the capacity to draw conclusions regarding different areas of research that are associated with aircraft and the available deicing techniques.

Statement of the Problem

The primary problem to be considered is the increased risk of aircraft accidents as a result of faulty deicing techniques, and how to overcome these concerns. Since aircraft deicing is essential to the successful operation of aircraft during inclement weather conditions, this process is essential to promote the discovery of new outcomes and to draw new conclusions in this area.

• Subproblem 1: The first subproblem will also explore the concerns that are associated with air traffic control and how to manage the organization and timing of these events to improve deicing outcomes.
• Subproblem 2: The second subproblem will address the relationship between deicing events and takeoff time.
• Subproblem 3: The third subproblem will consider the ways in which meteorological forecasting contribute to the need for deicing methods.
• Subproblem 4: The fourth subproblem will address implementation concerns associated with deicing on short notice.
• Subproblem 5: The fifth subproblem will address regulatory concerns that exist in response to the demand for deicing techniques.

Significance of the Problem

This problem is significant because deicing is a consistent concern for the aircraft industry in response to various forms of inclement weather. To protect the safety of all aircraft operators and passengers, the reasons behind the failure of aircraft to deice properly and to subsequently malfunction and cause accidents must be explored in greater detail. Therefore, such sub-factors as ambient temperature, time between deicing and takeoff, and other related concerns must be explored in greater detail to determine the capacity to identify the increased risk of airline accidents and their relationship to these factors in different ways.

Assumptions

The proposed study will consider the basic principles of aircraft deicing, which are essentially universal for commercial airline operations. In addition, it is important to note that the study will explore statistical analyses that are based upon similar conditions, when in reality, weather and related concerns are highly variable and do not necessarily lead to the same outcomes in all situations. To be specific, the relationship between ambient temperature and deicing is likely to provide important statistical results for consideration and further evaluation.

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