When operating on contaminated surfaces, what must be considered for the ERJ 170/175?

When operating the ERJ 170/175 on contaminated surfaces, it is crucial to consider the potential for ice ingestion. Contaminated surfaces, such as snow, ice, or slush, can lead to ice forming on the aircraft's engines and airframe, which may then be ingested into the engines during takeoff or climb. This ingestion of ice can adversely affect engine performance, potentially leading to engine stalls or failures, which poses a significant safety risk.

In these conditions, it is essential to ensure that the aircraft is properly de-iced and anti-iced before takeoff. This proactive measure helps to mitigate the risk of ice formation and protects engine functionality during critical phases of the flight. Understanding the implications of operating from contaminated surfaces is vital for maintaining aircraft safety and operational integrity.

While other factors like engine temperature and flight altitude may influence flight operations in different scenarios, the primary concern with contaminated surfaces specifically relates to the risks posed by ice ingestion. Therefore, bringing attention to the potential for ice ingestion leads to safer operating practices whenever contaminated surfaces are encountered.