Answer :
Final answer:
Runway deicing does not prevent long-term runway damage from freeze-thaw cycles or environmental damage due to chemical runoff. It also does not solve visibility or operational issues from accumulating snow or snowdrifts.
Explanation:
Recent runway chemical deicing activity is designed to prevent ice from forming on runway surfaces to maintain traction and safety. However, deicing does not save runways from all winter-related issues. In particular, deicing does not prevent long-term wear and tear caused by freeze-thaw cycles. Moreover, it does not address visibility problems due to snowfall accumulation nor does it prevent other weather-related challenges such as snowdrifts at the edges of runways which can still compromise operations.
Chemical deicers also come with environmental concerns as they can lead to chemical runoffs that might affect nearby water bodies and wildlife. Alternatives such as heated pavement technology or more environmentally friendly deicers are being researched to address these issues. Therefore, while deicing is a necessary process during winter months, it is not a comprehensive solution to all challenges posed by winter weather to airport operations.
