General Aviation
Accident Prevention Program

Tips On Winter Flying

FAA Warning/Disclaimer

Introduction

Winter flying in most parts of the United States can adversely affect flight operations.  Poor weather conditions with fast moving fronts, strong and gusty winds, blowing and drifting snow, and icing conditions are just part of the conditions that require careful planning in order to minimize their effects.  Operation in this environment requires special winter operating procedures.

These pages are designed to refresh the pilot's memory in cold weather operations.  Pilots should assure themselves that they have obtained adequate cold weather knowledge appropriate to the aircraft used and the geographical and weather environment.  Winter flying is not particularly hazardous if the pilot will use a little extra caution and exercise good judgment in analyzing weather situations.

The material presented here has been taken from many discussions of winter flying techniques with highly qualified pilots in various parts of the United States.  The experience gained in accident investigations has also been included in this guide.

This guide contains ideas and possible courses of action for the pilots to keep in mind while operating aircraft during winter months.  It is produced in connection with the Federal Aviation Administration, General Aviation Accident Prevention Program, as a reference for pilots desiring information on winter flying.

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