Cessna 152 1978, Pilot Operating Handbook

Page: 126 / 192

CESSNA AIRCRAFT COMPANY FOR TRAINING USE ONLY
MODEL 152 7-30
STATIC DISCHARGERS
If frequent IFR flights are planned, installation of wick-type static dischargers is recommended to
improve radio communications during flight through dust or various forms of precipitation (rain, snow
or ice crystals). Under these conditions, the build-up and discharge of static electricity from the trailing
edge of the wings, rudder, elevator, propeller tips, and radio antennas can result in loss of usable radio
signals on all communications and navigation radio equipment. Usually the ADF is first to be affected
and VFH communication equipment is the last to be affected.
Installation of static dischargers reduces interference from precipitation static, but it is possible to
encounter severe precipitation static conditions which might cause the loss of radio signals, even with
static dischargers installed. Whenever possible, avoid known severe precipitation areas to prevent loss
of dependable radio signals. If avoidance is impractical, minimize airspeed and anticipate temporary
loss of radio signals while in these areas.