What does OAT stand for in the context of deicing fluids?

OAT stands for Outside Air Temperature in the context of deicing fluids. It refers specifically to the temperature of the air outside an aircraft, which is a critical factor when determining the efficacy of deicing and anti-icing fluids. The performance of these fluids can be significantly affected by the surrounding temperature conditions. For instance, certain deicing fluids may function effectively at specific temperature ranges, so understanding the OAT helps in assessing whether the application of these fluids is necessary or effective. This makes OAT an essential parameter for aviation safety and operational procedures during winter weather conditions.