TKS De-Ice

[rcarters]

I would like to know if a TKS De-Ice system causes any loss of performance on takeoff landing cruse etc. in other than icing conditions.
I am looking to purchase a Mooney Ovation and have heard heavy rain and ice may cause a significant decrease in airspeed.
Randy

[flaps22]

I am neither an aircraft owner nor some wizened aviation mechanic, but I can tell you this: De-icing boots do NOT hamper aircraft performance. The ice accumulation on the wings DO. Just keep in mind that if you do encounter icing conditions, FLY OUT of it. Either search for a higher altitude or do a complete 180 to get out of a possibly worse situation. The deicing boots are there to help rid the leading edges of MINOR ice accumulation, not slow the plane down during operation. If you install speed brakes, then that'll do the job for ya. In the meantime, if you feel you do need to install the deicing boots, then by all means do so. Only problem is that you'd have to do a bit more maintenance on them to be sure that they DO operate. Happy flying!

[Denny of Oakland]

Randy,

DAS is right about performance, if install properly you will notice little or no performance loss. However to install them is a major field approval. Once installed there is the cost to maintain them. You can check the faa.gov web site and search for STC’s to find the one for the aircraft. Remember de-ice boots are not a cure all in ice conditions. Ice adds weight to the aircraft and in some case disrupts the airflow over the flight controls and lifting surfaces.

If you are close to a FAA Flight Standard District Office go and ask for all the hand out on flying in ice. Or send my your mailing address at dennis.d.pollard@faa.gov and I will send you a care package with tons of information. In addition if you know the exact make and model I will send you addition information about that aircraft.

Denny of Oakland