In Air Florida 90, which factors contributed to the crash?

• A. Deicing performed properly and engines indicated normally.
• B. Crew followed SOPs and maintained proper clearance.
• C. Ice/contamination and improper engine indications.
• D. Clear weather and normal engine performance.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is how icing affects both aircraft performance and the information the pilots rely on. Freezing rain left ice on the wings and other surfaces, which disrupts smooth airflow, raises stall speed, and reduces lift. That makes it easy to lose airspeed and control, especially just after takeoff when the airplane needs to climb. At the same time, ice can contaminate the air data and engine indicators, so the cockpit instruments can show readings that don’t reflect the actual thrust and speed. The crew may rely on those faulty indications and misjudge how fast they’re going or how much power the engines are delivering, contributing to an inadequate climb and loss of control. The other options describe scenarios that would not lead to this outcome under those weather conditions.