Icing disrupts the flow around the wings and tail surfaces, which of the following accurately describes its effect on lift, drag, and stall speed?

• A. Lowers lift, Increases drag and lowers the stalling speed
• B. Lowers lifts, increases drag and raises the stalling speed
• C. Lowers lift, Increases drag and raises the stalling speed
• D. Lowers lift, reduced thrust and lowers the stalling speed

Answer: (C)

Ice on the wings roughens the surface and adds weight, both of which disrupt the smooth airflow needed for lift. The rough ice reduces the wing’s lift capability (lower Cl_max) while increasing drag because the airflow becomes more turbulent and viscous losses rise. The extra weight and the decrease in maximum lift cause the airplane to require a higher airspeed to stay in level flight, so stall speed goes up. In short, icing lowers lift, increases drag, and raises stall speed.