An Overview of Applied Methodology in the Gathering and Analysis of Rotorcraft Cold Weather Encounters Data

Civil and military rotorcraft operators desire enhanced capabilities from their vehicles in terms of mission efficiency, effectiveness, productivity, and availability. A critical element of this challenge is associated with providing cold weather availability. Currently, cold weather operations are enabled by regulatory actions leading to Limited Approvals, Qualifications, Clearances, and Restrictions. Cold weather certification (clearance of a new aircraft) and continuing airworthiness (maintaining effectiveness of fielded aircraft) are data driven processes. This work provides guidance on an Icing Encounters Survey (IES) based data gathering method supporting continuing airworthiness organizations in improving fleet safety and capabilities during cold weather operations.