SCANDINAVIAN Airlines System (SAS) has selected AlliedSignal's overwing anti-icing system for its McDonnell Douglas MD-80s.
The airline lost an MD-80 in 1991 when ice shed from its wings caused the rear-mounted engines to flame out. Its selection of AlliedSignal's Electro-Thermal Ice Protection System (ETIPS) for its 69 MD-80s is a key contract in what has become a fiercely fought market.
The deal won against California-based TDG Aerospace, covers installation of the first kits in May. ETIPS Systems will be installed by Field Aviation of Toronto, Canada, with support from SAS.
The ETIPS is made up of thin, lightweight-fibre, heater elements with embedded temperature-sensors bonded on the wings. The system eliminates the formation of clear ice on the upper surface of the wing, particularly over the so-called "cold-corner" of the inboard fuel tank. Continental Airlines, which also helped with the development by fielding early prototypes, may also purchase the ETIPS.
TDG, meanwhile, is "...between 10 and 25% through shipping systems to American Airlines", says company president David Wensley. TDG has an exclusive contract with McDonnell Douglas to supply its NOFOD over-wing ice protection system for up to 800 MD-80s. Douglas Aircraft is expected to create a service bulletin for the installation of NOFOD before mid-1995.
American Airlines has set up modification lines to fit the NOFOD system to its 260 MD-80s. The system consists of a heating element covered by an aluminium cover sheet, which also acts as the upper wing skin. TDG says it is in negotiation with two other MD-80 operators.
Source: Flight International
