Aviator Airport Alliance has highlighted the importance of comprehensive de-/anti-icing training to ensure safe and efficient aircraft operations in winter conditions.
Operating at 15 airports across the Nordics, Aviator is part of Avia Solutions Group and provides full-range aviation services throughout Northern Europe. With snowfall and freezing conditions common in the region, ensuring aircraft are clear of ice, frost or snow is critical for flight safety.
Anders Søreide, Head of De-Icing & Safety Advisor at Aviator, said the company’s training program was built on SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) aerospace industry standards.
“Our training program is based upon SAE aerospace industry standards. The main objective is to train our staff to perform de-/anti-icing operations according to the SAE standards to ensure flight safety,” he said.
The program integrates both theory and practical exercises. Staff undergo annual training before each winter season, with classroom sessions laying the theoretical groundwork and simulated scenarios forming the practical component.
Søreide said simulated exercises often include obstacle courses to develop driving patterns, as well as spraying techniques and communication drills with vehicle operators and flight crews.
“Spraying exercises on a suitable surface, communication with other vehicles, drivers, and flight crews are essential,” he said. “Operators also need to understand the emergency procedures and visual interpretation of contamination in order to safely prepare the aircraft for departure.”
The company emphasises ongoing learning, conducting seasonal reviews of its training material based on updates to SAE standards, incident reports and instructor feedback. Aviator also participates in SAE meetings and undergoes regular audits by the De-icing/Anti-icing Quality Control Program (DAQCP).
Training challenges remain at smaller stations where real-time de-/anti-icing events are less frequent. To address this, Aviator uses high-volume airports like Bardufoss and Tromsø in Norway as support hubs to ensure trainees gain hands-on experience.
Initial operators are usually ramp agents with several years’ experience, holding valid driver’s licences and having completed all required training. English language proficiency and the ability to perform under pressure are essential.
“Our operators must be able to handle and operate several tasks simultaneously, being able to manage a stressful environment, with safety being their number one priority at all times,” Søreide said.
