What should you do if you encounter icing while flying?

Encountering icing while flying can be a serious hazard, and the correct response is to climb to a higher altitude if you can escape visible moisture. This is because most icing occurs in clouds or precipitation, where supercooled water droplets exist. By climbing to a higher altitude where these conditions do not exist, you can potentially reduce or eliminate the icing threat.

Higher altitudes often feature colder, drier air that is typically free of clouds and moisture, thereby providing a safer environment free from the supercooled droplets that cause ice accumulation on the aircraft. This strategy is particularly effective if conditions allow for a safe climb without risking other factors like weather phenomena or airspace restrictions.

In contrast, descending to a lower altitude could lead you into warmer temperatures, which may mitigate icing, but if you still remain in clouds or moist air, you risk continued icing. Maintaining altitude until the icing stops might not be viable, as the aircraft could continue accumulating ice, negatively impacting performance and control. A 180-degree turn might not be practical or safe in all situations, as it may not directly address the problem of icing and could lead to further complications.

Overall, climbing to a higher altitude is the best course of action when feasible, particularly when it allows you to