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CA.I.C.R1aFAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023Risk management

a. Circumstances that would make diversion prudent

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Making the go/no-go and continue/divert decisions, including: a. Circumstances that would make diversion prudent

Bottom line

Icing can destroy the smooth flow of air over the airfoil and increase drag while decreasing the airfoil's ability to create lift, significantly degrading airplane performance and resulting in a stall if not handled correctly. Areas en route or near airports may be below VFR minimums even when reporting stations are at or near VFR minimums; be especially cautious when the temperature and dewpoint spread is 3 °C or less, because fog may form. Do not continue VFR into IMC; instead, wait it out or turn around if en route weather lowers below your personal limits.

FAA references

  1. AFH ch. 5, Environmental Factors (p. 5-2) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  2. RMH ch. 1 (p. 1-1) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  3. AC 91-92, paras. 7.7, 8.1, 8.2 — AC No: 91-92
  4. AFH ch. 13 (pp. 13-9–13-10) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  5. PHAK ch. 13 (p. 13-11) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  6. 14 CFR 91.527 (Operating in icing conditions.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  7. AWH ch. 3 (p. 3-3) — FAA-H-8083-28A
  8. RMH ch. 5 (p. 5-2) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  9. PHAK ch. 2 (p. 2-18) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  10. AFH ch. 5, Human Factors (p. 5-2) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  11. RMH ch. 5 (p. 5-4) — FAA-H-8083-2A
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