An Instagram video has surfaced where a pilot is pouring something like soda over an airplane cockpit window before departure. Viewers were stunned to see the clip.
The viral clip captures a pilot splashing the liquid across the windshield and wiping it down minutes before takeoff, making the viewers wonder whether fizzy drinks are actually used to clean aircraft glass.
The strange moment quickly gained attention online, prompting pilot Joi Schweitzer to explain what was really happening and whether the method is acceptable in aviation.
Schweitzer claims that after watching the video, many viewers made incorrect assumptions. She added that rather than a sugary soft drink, the liquid being utilized was probably soda water.
“Believe it or not, it actually works," she said in her now-viral video. “What this pilot is using is probably soda water and not soda. So there is no sugar or stickiness in soda water."
The distinction is significant as soda water contains carbonic acid, a mild natural acid that can help remove dirt and residue from cockpit windows.
“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," Schweitzer explained.
She further explained that soda water is considered safe for the aircraft windshield surface. “It won’t damage the windshield coating," she added, addressing concerns that such an improvised cleaning method could harm the sensitive cockpit glass.
'Not A Standard Procedure'
However, Schweitzer clarified that using soda water is not part of any official aviation protocol.
“Is this standard procedure? No, it’s not," she added.
There is no official checklist that includes using soda water to clean windshields, and pilots are not instructed to do so. However, Schweitzer pointed out that when time is limited, seasoned pilots occasionally turn to workable alternatives.
She claimed that the tactic is frequently employed when an appropriate bug wash is not available and the plane is getting ready to take off.
"This is old-school pilot resourcefulness when you call for a bug wash and you have to push that aircraft back and there isn't enough time," Schweitzer clarified.
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Before takeoff, it's crucial to keep the cockpit visible, particularly if the pilot's view is being blocked by bugs, dirt, or residue. Pilots may use simple yet efficient techniques like soda water when ground staff are running late or there is not much time before takeoff.
As the video gained popularity, comments began to come in. "Should I put it on my vehicle?" inquired one inquisitive user.