EASA: Atmospheric Icing Insufficiently Understood

EASA is calling for further studies into the impact of atmospheric icing on aviation at higher altitudes. The European air safety agency published a report on Wednesday summarizing “the state of science and knowledge on atmospheric icing in a climate change context.” In work developed under the European Network on the Impact of Climate Change on Aviation, the agency highlighted gaps in understanding of the phenomenon and how changing conditions could affect it in the future. 

Although EASA acknowledges that forecasting capabilities have improved, it believes that “important knowledge” and data gaps remain. Specifically, the agency cited the persistent challenges in predicting icing severity and in-flight ice crystal conditions. It also cautioned that current “limitations in observations, model resolution and the representation of cloud microphysics can affect the ability to accurately assess icing conditions.”

Regarding the coming decades, the report stated that data concerning projections for future trends in atmospheric icing conditions are “almost non-existent,” with current research predominantly centered on ground-level regional studies in northern Europe. EASA recommends that comprehensive studies addressing icing phenomena at higher altitudes, and their impact on aviation, be conducted. 

The safety agency noted that temperatures in the upper troposphere of central and western Asia are projected to decrease from 2050, whereas eastern Asia will register a marginal increase. Temperatures are also expected to rise over the western North Pacific.