A viral video captured a pilot using soda to clean airplane cockpit windows, sparking widespread curiosity. An aircraft mechanic explained that the carbonic acid in soda water can effectively break down grime and bugs without damaging the windshield coating. This unconventional method is described as old-school pilot resourcefulness for quick fixes during tight turnarounds.
The sight of an aeroplane flying overhead often compels us to glance up, reliving our childhood days!Airports are buzzing places, full of curious scenes happening in every nook and corner of the place.Recently, a video went viral showing a bizarre act, leading social media to question, what is really happening!
Photo: @airplanefactswithmax/ Instagram
Viral video shows a pilot washing airplane glass with soda?
A video showed a pilot pouring soda onto airplane cockpit windows for a quick wipe-down right before pushback, leaving viewers puzzled. Many people started questioning what was exactly happening.Then aircraft mechanic Max, posted a video about the same explaining that it might just be a soda water or something similar, that could have been used by the pilot for cleaning the airplane windshields, which get dirty just like the cars’ windshields.
But the ones installed in airplanes are different from those in cars and keeping them clean is as necessary as keeping the ones in cars clean for better visibility!
Does it really work?
Soda water’s carbonic acid tackles tough grime safely. Pilot Schweitzer also explains in another video, “Soda water has a tiny bit of natural acidity called carbonic acid, and that acid helps break down dirt, bugs, grime, and probably even a little bit of bird poop.”
She adds, “It won’t damage the windshield coating.”
This isn’t in any training manual. Schweitzer states that it is not a standard procedure.
Old pilot resourcefullness
Tight turnarounds demand quick fixes for clear views. Schweitzer says, “When you call for a bug wash and you gotta get that airplane pushed back and there isn’t enough time, this is old school pilot resourcefulness.” She notes, “So sometimes you have to keep visibility clear.”
