With winter weather approaching for some of us, there's a pretty good argument for seasonal removal of the wheel fairings (or "pants"). The winter months in some parts of the country bring with them snow, slush, and other phenomena common to temperatures hanging at or below the freezing mark. Snow tends to accumulate in the cavity to the rear of the tire, placing added weight and stress on the fiberglass or plastic fairings. The accumulations can be severe enough to pack snow against the wheel where it can freeze to the tire, causing occasional anxious moments on landing. This is especially the case if the runway is covered with ice and not enough traction is available to break the tire loose during touchdown.
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