As winter approaches and airports become blanketed in snow and ice, aviation safety faces significant challenges. Aircraft deicing operations, a critical component of winter aviation safety, require rigorous standardized management. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has responded by introducing a comprehensive "Aircraft Deicing Operations Management" training course designed to enhance industry professionals' technical skills and ensure safe, efficient winter flight operations.
Course Overview: Addressing Winter Challenges Through Enhanced Deicing Management
The three-day (24-hour) program, taught by IATA-certified instructors, covers aircraft deicing standards and procedures that meet requirements from regulatory bodies, airlines, deicing service providers, and airport authorities. Participants can attend in-person sessions at IATA training centers or regional partner locations, or arrange customized corporate training. The course concludes with an assessment to evaluate participants' learning outcomes.
Global Course Schedule for 2026
IATA has announced the following schedule for its "Aircraft Deicing Operations Management" course:
- Singapore (IATA): January 5-7
- Singapore (IATA): March 16-18
- Geneva, Switzerland (IATA): April 27-29
- Amsterdam, Netherlands (IATA): September 21-23
Learning Objectives: Mastering Deicing Standards and Operational Efficiency
Upon completion, participants will be able to:
- Understand deicing standards from ICAO, IATA, EASA, FAA, and Transport Canada
- Fulfill legal responsibilities in managing and supervising deicing operations
- Coordinate between airlines, service providers, and airports to develop effective winter operation plans
- Conduct audits to evaluate deicing operation effectiveness
Comprehensive Curriculum Covering Critical Deicing Operations
The course addresses key operational aspects including:
- Winter Operations Analysis: Examining seasonal operational challenges and deicing service components
- Regulatory Compliance: Detailed review of domestic and international deicing regulations
- Methodological Approaches: Systematic study of deicing theory and practical application
- Equipment Evaluation: Assessing deicing equipment capabilities and solution selection
- Cost Optimization: Analyzing cost structures and efficiency improvements
- Centralized Deicing Facilities: Exploring benefits and operational models
- Environmental Considerations: Addressing ecological impacts and mitigation strategies
- Operational Audits: Techniques for evaluating and improving deicing processes
Target Audience: Key Personnel for Winter Operations Management
The course is particularly recommended for:
- Airline managers, coordinators, flight operations managers, and station chiefs
- Airport operations managers
- Ground service provider staff
- Regulatory authority personnel
The Critical Role of Aircraft Deicing in Aviation Safety
Aircraft deicing involves removing ice, snow, and frost from aircraft surfaces before takeoff. These contaminants alter aerodynamic properties, reducing lift and increasing drag, which can severely impact aircraft handling and potentially lead to accidents. Regulatory agencies worldwide mandate strict deicing protocols that airlines and airports must follow.
Operational Challenges in Deicing
Deicing operations present multiple challenges:
- Time Pressure: Operations must be completed quickly to prevent flight delays
- Harsh Conditions: Operations often occur in cold, wet, and windy environments requiring skilled personnel
- Cost Management: Significant expenses for deicing fluids necessitate efficient resource use
- Environmental Impact: Deicing fluids require careful handling to minimize ecological effects
Course Benefits: Enhancing Professional Capabilities
IATA's training program helps participants address these challenges by:
- Mastering current deicing technologies and methods
- Selecting appropriate equipment based on operational needs
- Developing efficient deicing plans and resource allocation strategies
- Implementing cost reduction measures without compromising safety
- Applying environmental protection measures
The program combines IATA's industry authority with global regulatory perspectives and practical training approaches, delivered by certified instructors through flexible learning formats.