How should snow on top of deicing or anti-icing fluids be treated?

Snow on top of deicing or anti-icing fluids must be regarded as adhering to the aircraft. This is important because the accumulation of snow can impact the aerodynamic characteristics of the aircraft. Even deicing or anti-icing fluids applied to the surface can become compromised if snow accumulates on top of them. The presence of snow can potentially create a scenario where ice forms underneath it, leading to a number of safety concerns, including reduced lift and increased drag during flight.

Understanding that snow is adhering to the aircraft emphasizes the necessity of continual monitoring and potential re-treatment of the aircraft's surfaces before departure, ensuring that the aircraft is safe for takeoff. This reinforces the importance of conducting thorough pre-flight checks in snowy conditions to confirm that no snow or ice is present on critical surfaces.