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Aviation glossary

Mixed Ice

What is mixed ice?

Illustration related to mixed ice
Image: Olivier Gajewski — CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mixed ice is structural icing that combines clear ice and rime ice forming on the same surface. It carries the bad characteristics of both types—the hard, heavy buildup of clear ice and the rough, irregular shape of rime ice—and can form rapidly. Because its shape and roughness disrupt airflow, it is especially harmful aerodynamically. Think of it as getting the worst of both worlds in one icing encounter.

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