Winter & Adverse Weather
Operations in winter conditions and adverse weather
Winter & Adverse Weather Operations
This section outlines the standard procedures for operations in winter and adverse weather conditions at Air Canada Virtual Airline.
De-icing and Anti-icing
Hold-Over Time (HOT) Tables
A Hold-Over Time table must be consulted when anti-icing fluids are applied:
| OAT °C | Type IV Fluid Snow (light-mod) | Freezing Drizzle |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to –3 | 45–60 min | 20–25 min |
| –4 to –9 | 30–45 min | 15–20 min |
The PIC is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is free of contamination at takeoff. If HOT is exceeded, a new de-icing/anti-icing application is required.
Post-De-icing Checklist
After de-icing is complete:
- Visually inspect critical surfaces (wings, tail, etc.)
- Complete the “WINGS checked clean” callout
- Record the start time of the HOT period
- Ensure all flight controls are checked for freedom of movement
Contaminated Runway Operations
Performance Calculations
- Use medium braking (Runway Condition Code = 3) factors for contaminated runway performance calculations
- Increase V1/Vr if necessary based on runway condition
- Extend landing distances based on braking action reports
- Consider reduced flap settings for landing (if authorized)
Taxi Procedures
- Single-engine taxi is prohibited on ice or snow
- Avoid using reverse thrust on snow-covered or icy taxiways
- Maintain greater distance from preceding aircraft
- Use reduced taxi speeds appropriate to surface conditions
Adverse Weather Operations
Thunderstorm/Lightning Operations
- No fueling operations during thunderstorm activity within 5 nm
- Avoid penetration of thunderstorms by 20 nm when possible
- Use weather radar to navigate around cells
- If embedded in CB clouds, maintain straight and level flight when possible
Wind Shear Operations
- Low level wind shear awareness below 1,500 ft AGL
- Wind shear escape maneuver:
- TOGA thrust
- Pitch to wind shear escape attitude
- Maintain configuration until climbing
- Follow FD guidance if available
Heavy Rain
- Use engine anti-ice when heavy precipitation is present
- Consider increased braking distances
- Be alert for hydroplaning during landing
- Monitor windshield wiper effectiveness
Special Equipment Requirements
Engine Ignition Settings
- Continuous ignition must be used for:
- Standing water greater than 13 mm depth
- Severe turbulence
- Heavy precipitation
- Icing conditions
- As specified in aircraft operating manual
Aircraft Configuration
- Anti-ice systems must be fully operational for dispatch into known icing conditions
- Windshield heating must be operational
- Additional minimum equipment requirements per the MEL for winter operations
Specific Operational Techniques
Take-off Considerations
- Longer balanced field length in contaminated conditions
- Crosswind limitations may be reduced
- Consider use of available runway length rather than reduced/intersection departures
Landing Techniques
- Use of autobrake at higher setting than normal
- Early deployment of thrust reversers
- Avoid excessive use of brakes to prevent skidding
- Gentle control inputs after touchdown
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