Winter Aircraft Operation: Verify Engine Fan Rotation To Avoid Catastrophic Consequences

February 2024

In winter, it takes very little ice at the bottom of the engine inlet area to prevent the fan from rotating freely, and a frozen fan can result in expensive engine damage upon starting.  

During conditions with blowing snow, freezing rain, or ice, always verify the engine fans are able to properly rotate prior to starting the engines.  

This is even more important if the aircraft has been stored in a heated hangar and then towed outside. The temperature of the warm aircraft can cause winter precipitation to melt rapidly and then re-freeze in the engine inlet area.  

Do not chip or scrape ice or snow from the engine inlets. This can cause engine damage. Always properly de-ice these areas prior to engine start.