Expect major problems at airports across the nation that get snow. That’s because there’s a serious shortage of … runway de-icer.
The federal government is warning airlines that flights could face disruptions this winter because of a severe shortage of a chemical used to keep runways free from snow and ice.A 99-day strike by Canadian potash mine workers forced companies to halt production of runway de-icing fluid. Potash is a form of potassium, a primary de-icing ingredient.
Spokesmen at large airports that frequently become snowbound vowed to keep flights moving by using alternate chemicals. Even if air travel does not face interruptions, the shortage will cost cash-strapped airports millions of dollars in higher costs and the alternative chemicals cause greater environmental problems, according to the Airports Council International and the American Association of Airport Executives.
That’s just … great.
On the other hand, I was fascinated by the little graphic about major airports with the most average amount of snow: Cleveland, Denver, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis-St Paul, and Detroit. I had no idea we ranked up there so high. Which makes this particular story all the more worrisome (see Christmas 2006).
(via Ginny)