Do pilots also clean the plane's windows with cloth?
The article explains how planes' windshields are cleaned by ground maintenance teams rather than pilots themselves.
The article discusses the maintenance of aircraft windshields, emphasizing the importance of visibility for pilots while flying at speeds of about 900 kilometers per hour. It highlights that dust, raindrops, and sometimes insects can accumulate on the windshield, making it necessary to ensure it is clean for the safety of the flight. Contrary to what some might think, pilots do not clean the windshields before takeoff; this task is handled by specialized ground maintenance teams.
Before an aircraft takes off, maintenance teams thoroughly clean the windshield on the runway using specific liquid cleaners and microfiber cloths to avoid scratches. They remove oil stains, dust, bird droppings, and other debris to prevent glare from the runway lights during landing, which could hinder the pilot's visibility. This thorough cleaning process is essential for flight safety, as even minor obstructions could lead to serious visibility issues for the pilots during critical phases of flight.
The article also notes that most commercial airplanes are equipped with wipers similar to those on cars, but these wipers of aircraft are much more robust and designed to handle extreme conditions at high speeds. Their efficiency is crucial, given that pilots require clear visibility for decision-making during takeoffs and landings, contributing to overall safety in aviation.