SAE AIR 5541

This SAE Aerospace Information Report (AIR) advises that some of the chemicals being used to disinfect, de-ice, and clean airplanes can cause corrosion and/or degradation of landing gear components. Landing gear equipment includes shock struts, braces, actuators, wheels, brakes, tires, and electrical components. Some of the chemicals that have been recognized as potentially injurious are identified and recommendations for mitigating damage are presented.

The purpose of this report is to increase general awareness of the risks associated with exposing aircraft to corrosive chemicals that are being used for disinfecting, de-icing, and cleaning operations. This document also seeks to inform personnel responsible for landing gear systems of the action needed to mitigate and document the corrosion risk to an affected aircraft and its landing gear systems.