From NTSB Alert To FAA Action
The next month, according to the FAA, is critical for safe icing operations. Late last year, the NTSB recommended all pilots perform tactile testing for ice on flying surfaces, and the FAA now warns icing accidents/incidents are just as prevalent or more prevalent during the months of March and April as in November, December and January. Specific to Cessna Caravans, an FAA Airworthiness Directive (AD) effective tomorrow requires operators of all Cessna Caravan model 208 and 208b aircraft to modify the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) to assure that the pilot has enough information to prevent loss of control while flying in icing conditions. The AD is the result of six accidents in the previous two icing seasons and nine events in the past few months involving Caravans in ice, the FAA said, and perhaps with some special attention to an NTSB Alert Letter. The AFM revisions vary somewhat according to model and engine type, but include a warning that the stall-warning system has not been tested in all icing conditions and should not be relied upon in icing conditions; a note that takeoff is prohibited with any frost, ice, snow or slush adhering to the wings, horizontal stabilizer, control surfaces, propeller blades and engine inlets; and a note that a tactile check is required in addition to a visual check.
