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Have you ever wondered why fire engines spray water on airplanes just before takeoff? If you are thinking that this has anything to do with cleanliness, then you are absolutely wrong. Let us know the real reason.
There are many facts related to airplanes, about which very few people know. When an air hostess or pilot reveals these things, it is surprising to know. Today we are going to tell you about one such secret related to airplanes. You must have noticed that when an aircraft is ready to take off on the runway, water is sprayed on it by fire fighting engines. Seeing this, any passenger can assume that the plane is being cleaned before the flight. But let us tell you that this is not a cleaning process but a special ritual, which is called ‘Water Salute’. The reason for this strange practice is surprising, which is a unique mystery in the world of air travel.
The water salute is actually a celebration ceremony in which two fire engines create an arch of water above the plane, forming a ‘tunnel’ and the plane passes under it. Like the salute to ships, this tradition is a symbol of respect, celebration or good wishes. According to a report by Simple Flying, the water salute is performed on special occasions – such as to honor the last flight of a senior pilot or airport employee before retirement. It is also done to honor record-breaking flights, welcome the Olympic team or military personnel. According to Shiphole Airport, this tradition originally began in the maritime industry, where fireboats would create arches of water on ships’ maiden voyages.
Like the salute to ships, this tradition is a symbol of respect, celebration or good wishes. (Indicative photo- Canva AI Generated)
When did the airlines water salute happen for the first time?
The first water salute was performed at Salt Lake City International Airport in the 1990s to honor a retiring Delta Airlines pilot. Since then this tradition was continued further. It is important to understand water salute separately from ground de-icing process. De-icing involves spraying liquid on a plane to prevent ice from forming during cold weather, while the water salute is purely for ceremony.
What is ‘Blue Ice’?
Do you know what ‘Blue Ice’ is? If you do not know, then let us tell you that this is the waste leaking from the aircraft toilet, which turns into blue colored ice in -60 degree temperature. Sometimes this snow separates from the plane and falls on the ground, which can cause property damage or injury. Therefore, liquid is sprayed to prevent ice from forming on the plane. Have you ever seen a plane take a water salute? If you haven’t seen it, this sight is really worth seeing and reflects this unique tradition of the aviation industry. Next time you travel by plane and see a water shower, understand that this is not an ordinary cleanliness but a special symbol of respect!
