De-Icing Wing Boots | Ice Shield

Rubber De-Ice Boots for Wings

Ice Shield’s® rubber de-ice boots support over 85 percent of the general aviation aircraft operating today. Interchangeable on all major General, Commuter, and Business Aviation aircraft, Ice Shield’s wing de-ice boots are trusted worldwide by top original equipment manufacturers. All parts are strenuously tested in extreme conditions to ensure the quality and durability of our products. Ice Shield PSA custom-designed wing de-icers can be quickly installed to your aircraft, letting you fly the plane immediately after installation finishes.

Manufacturers using Ice Shield:

OEMs

Textron

Regional/Commuter aircraft operators
Part 135 Charter Operators
Corporate and Individual Aircraft Owners

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Ice Shield Wing De-ice Boots Work?

Our pneumatic wing de-ice boots use bleed air or vacuum pumps to dislodge ice during both the inflation and deflation of the boot’s tubular channels. The airplane de-icing boots can be activated manually or by a timer controlled by the pilot. Within minutes, ice will begin to shed from the plane’s wing. Check out our complete list of wing de-ice boots here.

Why can’t planes fly with ice on their wings?

It’s hazardous to fly a plane with ice on its wings. This is because ice attached to the wings alters the airflow over the curvatures of the wings. With these obstructions affecting the airflow, your plane’s lift force is reduced, which may cause the aircraft to stall and temporarily make it lose control. The aerodynamics of an aircraft is very sensitive, and each part of the plane must be carefully maintained to ensure the aircraft stays under the pilot’s control.

What are de-ice boots made of?

De-ice boots are generally made of neoprene, and the industry has used this black material for a very long time. However, some manufacturers also make de-ice boots using a synthetic polymer called Estane or a silver urethane material. These other two materials are often used because they look sleeker and are more durable against harsh weather conditions.

What keeps the wing de-ice boot deflated in flight?

During expansion, the boots are inflated by pneumatic pressure that breaks away the ice. They are then deflated by vacuum suction. When not in use, the system will continuously apply a vacuum to hold the boots tightly against the aircraft while not in use.

Do aircraft de-icing boots need maintenance?

Yes, maintaining the de-icing system should be part of the plane’s regularly scheduled inspections and should also be inspected before and after each flight. Cleaning the boots after landing is just as important and should be done while removing bugs and debris from the rest of the aircraft.

How long do de-ice boots last?

Debris can end the life of your de-icing boot system quickly so regular inspection is important before and after each flight but with proper care typical life expectancy of de-ice boots last from 3 - 10 years with proper care.

Why is the inlet de-icing system very important for aircraft?

De-icing systems provide jet engines and turboprops with the capability to eliminate ice build-up that can cause serious issues like engine damage or airflow problems.

See our article about aircraft de-icing questions here for answers to more questions we get asked often.

How to Install a Wing Boot

Ice Shield Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Wing Boot Application

Ice Shield PSA™ is a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) installation application for de-icers. Ice Shield PSA boots are standard Ice Shield boots with the Pressure Sensitive Adhesive applied at the factory. Ice Shield PSA parts are offered for most of Ice Shield’s certified airframes. The Ice Shield product line allows customers to choose either the PSA application or the traditional contact adhesive application. Learn more about our pressure-sensitive adhesive and how it can help your de-icing equipment today!