LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Interpret AIRICE displays for potential aircraft icing vs. pressure levels. Identify limitations and assumptions. The AIRICE program analyzes radiosonde data from the AEF for potential ice accumulation on aircraft. AIRICE checks each radiosonde level for potential icing starting from the lifting condensation level (LCL). If ice accumulation is possible, then the icing type and intensity are determined. The icing analysis (icing probability, type, and intensity) is displayed in tabular form along with radiosonde analysis data.

The accumulation of ice on the exterior surfaces of aircraft has the potential of causing serious handling problems and can lead to a crash. Ice accretion also increases the weight of the aircraft and reduces its payload capacity and fuel efficiency. The main cause of aircraft ice accretion is freezing cloud droplets. The purpose of this function is to provide an aircraft icing assessment from which a naval forecaster can predict flight levels where hazardous icing conditions may occur.

The restrictions as well as the principles taken for granted in using the AIRICE program areas follows: . Icing conditions are indicated at actual radiosonde levels. The possibility of icing may exist between the level indicated and the next higher and next lower levels. The icing type and intensity apply to the layer indicated, but may be valid up to the next higher level.

. AIRICE begins the icing analysis at the LCL. In the case where surface conditions are unstable (LCL is undefined), the analysis begins at the surface. This latter condition can yield greater severity in the icing intensity.

. The possible icing types displayed are clear, mixed, rime, or engine induction.

. The possible icing intensities are trace, light, moderate, or severe.

. The possible icing probabilities displayed are 10, 20,50, and 100 percent.

. The operator has the capability to change the cloud base height of the level that is displayed. The only effect that changing the cloud base height has on the output is to change the icing intensity value. The radiosonde profile information, icing type, and probability are not changed.

Table 7-5 shows an example of the AIRICE product. The analysis may be in either English or metric units. The display may be shown on two screens if the sounding has many levels.

In this chapter we have discussed a few of the many computer and climatological products available to aid the Aerographers Mate in the analysis and forecasting of meteorological conditions, thus ensuring support of surface and airborne operations. optimum

Table 7-5.-Example Output of the AIRICE Product

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