> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.canadava.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Winter & Adverse Weather > Follow vACA winter operations procedures for de-icing, hold-over times, contaminated runways, and adverse weather flying # Winter & Adverse Weather Operations This section outlines the standard procedures for operations in winter and adverse weather conditions at Virtual Air Canada 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: 1. Visually inspect critical surfaces (wings, tail, etc.) 2. Complete the "**WINGS checked clean**" callout 3. Record the start time of the HOT period 4. 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: 1. TOGA thrust 2. Pitch to wind shear escape attitude 3. Maintain configuration until climbing 4. 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 Continue to learn about security protocols and dangerous goods handling