Plain English Meaning

Rubber strips along the front edges of the wings and tail that puff up with air to break ice off, then go flat again. Pilots switch them on when ice has built up in flight.

Full Definition

Inflatable rubber coverings bonded to the leading edges of wings and stabilizers that, when activated, are inflated with engine-supplied air to crack and shed accumulated ice. After inflation, the boots deflate and return to a smooth shape so the surface continues to produce normal lift and control.

Context Anchor

You will see this term in discussions of aircraft ice protection systems, especially on aircraft approved to fly in where ice may form.