The A320 ice and rain protection system prevents ice accumulation on critical surfaces. Wing anti-ice uses hot bleed air, engine anti-ice uses hot air on engine inlet cowls, and electrical heating protects probes and windshields. Understanding anti-ice operation, limitations, and when to activate is essential for safe flight operations.
Anti-Ice Systems
- Wing Anti-Ice: Thermal anti-ice using bleed air on three outboard wing slats per wing
- Engine Anti-Ice: Hot bleed air directed to engine inlet cowls
- Probe Heat: Electrical heating for pitot probes, static ports, AOA sensors, TAT probe
- Window Heat: Electrical heating for windshields prevents ice and improves visibility
Operation
Engine anti-ice available on ground and in flight. Wing anti-ice only in flight (not on ground except for test). Probe heat automatically activates when at least one engine running. Window heat operates on ground and flight.