What is the minimum ambient temperature for deicing boots?

The minimum ambient temperature for deicing boots is crucial for ensuring their effectiveness in removing ice buildup on the aircraft's wings and control surfaces. In the case of the King Air 350, the deicing boots are designed to function properly within a specified temperature range. At -40°C, the materials and mechanism of the deicing boots remain operable and effective, allowing for the necessary expansion and contraction that aids in ice removal.

Using deicing boots at temperatures below this threshold can lead to material brittleness or malfunction, which decreases their efficiency and could compromise safety during flight. Therefore, the specification of -40°C ensures that pilots are aware of the limits to which they can safely operate the deicing system without risking failure or performance issues.