Definition
The process of recognizing that ice is forming on the aircraft, accomplished either by the pilot's visual inspection of airframe surfaces and indicators, or by automatic ice detection systems that sense ice accretion and alert the crew.
Plain English
Noticing that ice is building up on the aircraft, either by looking for it yourself or by relying on a sensor that warns you when it appears.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument flight in cold, visible moisture, especially in discussions of an inadvertent icing encounter.
Why Pilots Care
Early ice detection lets the pilot activate protection systems or exit the icing area before lift and control are seriously reduced.
Grounding Statement
If ice starts appearing on the airplane or the airplane begins acting heavier and less responsive in icing conditions, the pilot needs to recognize it immediately.
Intuition Check
Ice detection does not mean ice removal. It only means recognizing that ice is present or forming; the pilot still has to take action.
Example Sentence 1
After entering the cloud layer, the pilot used a flashlight at night for ice detection on the wing leading edge.
Example Sentence 2
Performance loss during climb prompted immediate ice detection checks before continuing the flight.