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Aviation glossary

Induction Icing

What is induction icing?

Illustration related to induction icing
Image: NASA Glenn Research Center — Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Induction icing is ice that forms in the engine's induction system—the path air travels to reach the engine—reducing the amount of air available for combustion. The most common form in reciprocating (piston) engines is carburetor ice. Think of it as ice choking off your engine's air supply, the same way a clogged straw limits how much you can sip.

Also known as: induction system icing

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