Which factor is most critical for determining how long de-ice fluid remains effective after application?

Which factor is most critical for determining how long de-ice fluid remains effective after application?

• A. Aircraft color
• B. Holdover time
• C. Time of day
• D. Fuel type

Answer: (B)

Holdover time is the window after application during which the de-ice/anti-ice fluid is expected to keep ice from forming under the current weather conditions. It’s the critical measure because it ties the protection to the fluid type, application, and environmental conditions you’re dealing with—temperature, precipitation type and rate, wind, and surface contamination all affect how long the coating remains effective. As long as you’re within the holdover time and conditions stay favorable, the fluid should perform as intended; when the holdover time expires or the weather changes, reapplication or additional de-icing is normally required. Factors like aircraft color, time of day, or fuel type don’t influence how long the fluid protects the surface.

Holdover time is the window after application during which the de-ice/anti-ice fluid is expected to keep ice from forming under the current weather conditions. It’s the critical measure because it ties the protection to the fluid type, application, and environmental conditions you’re dealing with—temperature, precipitation type and rate, wind, and surface contamination all affect how long the coating remains effective. As long as you’re within the holdover time and conditions stay favorable, the fluid should perform as intended; when the holdover time expires or the weather changes, reapplication or additional de-icing is normally required. Factors like aircraft color, time of day, or fuel type don’t influence how long the fluid protects the surface.