WASHINGTON, DC, October 10, 2005 – As the cold weather operation season closes in, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), and the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) have partnered to promote a safety awareness program designed to mitigate the risk of incidents related to ice contamination.

The three organizations are jointly sending a letter to operators and fixed based operators (FBOs) within the business aircraft community, highlighting the extra measures operators should take when operating in a winter climate. The letter also provides references to online resources containing detailed guidance and comprehensive educational tools for icing operations.

Pete Bunce, President and CEO of GAMA said, “Operations in a winter environment require extra attention from the flight crew prior to takeoff as well as in-flight. We have found that tactile inspections of the critical surfaces help the operator ensure safe operation in a cold climate.”