What do pilots use to clean plane windows?

Some pilots use fizzy drinks like sparkling water or soda water to clean aircraft windshields.

Why are fizzy drinks effective for cleaning plane windows?

The carbonic acid in fizzy drinks helps break down dirt and grime without damaging the windshield coating, and carbonation assists in lifting residue.

Is cleaning plane windows with fizzy drinks a standard procedure?

No, it is described as an old-school pilot resourcefulness tactic used when standard cleaning supplies are not readily available.

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Fizzy Drinks: The Unexpected Plane Window Cleaner

29 Jan

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Summary

Pilots use fizzy drinks like sparkling water to clean plane windshields.
Carbonic acid in soda water helps break down dirt and grime.
This method is an old-school pilot's resourceful solution for quick cleaning.

Fizzy Drinks: The Unexpected Plane Window Cleaner

Commercial pilots are employing an unexpected item for cleaning aircraft windshields: fizzy drinks. Sparkling water or soda water is being used by some pilots as a quick cleaning solution. The natural carbonic acid present in these beverages possesses properties that help break down dirt, bugs, and other grime from the glass surfaces.

This method is not a standard procedure but is described as 'old-school pilot resourcefulness.' The carbonation in fizzy drinks aids in loosening and lifting residue, while the mineral content offers cleaning power without harsh chemicals. This technique is effective for superficial dirt like dead bugs but is not suitable for heavier contaminants like grease or oil, which require more robust cleaning products.

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