Feds enact new airline ice detection rules

By the CNN Wire Staff

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Rules require installation of ice detection equipment on certain smaller aircraft
Flight manuals to be revised so crews know when to activate ice protection systems
New rules are based on recommendation from National Transportation Safety Board

Washington (CNN) -- Federal officials enacted new rules Friday requiring airlines to install updated ice detection equipment in certain smaller existing fleets, a step designed to boost passenger safety.

The Federal Aviation Administration also ordered a revision of flight manuals to ensure that crews know the appropriate point at which to activate ice protection systems, according to a FAA statement.

Large commercial airliners already have ice detection equipment.

"We want pilots to have the best technology available to detect icing conditions so they can take the steps necessary to ensure passenger safety," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said.

The new rules are based on a recommendation from the National Transportation Safety Board.