Flying in the winter can be fun, but it also exposes you and your aircraft to certain hazards. Strong winds, drifting snow, and icy conditions can make it difficult for you to keep your aircraft under control, both in the air and on the ground. If you want to have a safe and enjoyable flight, make sure you follow these winter flying tips:
• If the hangar is available, keep your aircraft there the night before the flight.
• If you cannot gain access to a hangar, use engine and wing covers to protect your aircraft. Make sure that the propeller, windshield, tail, and top of the cabin are properly covered as well.
• Preheat your aircraft’s engine with an electric heater, firewall-mounted heater, or a Tanis preheating system.
• Keep fuel tanks full to prevent condensation.
• Dress warmly both on the ground and in the plane.
• Understand the winter operating capabilities of your aircraft. If you are using skis, make sure that your aircraft has enough power to run through deep snow and avoid making sharp and abrupt turns.
• Keep the engine warm during letdown.
• Plan an alternate landing site in case the weather in your destination does not allow a safe landing.
• Take time to look out for snow drifts and other hazards before landing.
• After the flight, fill up the fuel tanks, and cover and tie down your aircraft.
• Make sure you have a survival kit to help you overcome emergency situations. The kit should include enough food to last for two weeks, first aid kit, hatchet or ax, knife, firearm and ammunition, matches, and signaling devices.
Moving your aircraft around in the airbase can be difficult during winter. As such, it is advisable that you use a powered aircraft tug. Lindbergh offers a wide range of airplane tow tugs that can make the task of moving aircrafts easier, more efficient, and safer during winter.
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