weather theoryFAA-published sample question (ATM, Aug 2021)
What course of action should the pilot take if encountering freezing rain?
A
Climb because the temperature is warmer at a higher altitude.✓ Correct Answer
B
Descend because the temperature is warmer at a lower altitude.
C
No change is necessary if all anti-ice/deice equipment is working.
Explanation
Freezing rain means rain is falling from a layer of above-freezing air aloft into subfreezing air below, so the warmer air is above; FAA guidance is to climb into the warmer layer or leave the area promptly. Descending keeps the aircraft in the freezing layer, and continuing on ice protection alone is dangerous because freezing rain can exceed its capability.
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