The static wicks—sometimes known as static dischargers—are often attached to the thinnest metal surfaces on the aircraft such as the horizontal stabilizer and ailerons. As the airplane moves ...

the static discharge wick. They're small, but they do a lot of work. Static electricity buildup flowing through an aircraft is more likely to pool up around thin, sharp edges of the airframe.

though they can start to fray with time, particularly from repeated exposure to the elements. This is why checking the static wicks is an important task on any aircraft upkeep checklist.

They are called static wicks, or static dischargers, and they actually have a very important function. ... “When an aircraft is in flight it is continuously rubbing against the atmosphere.

They are called static wicks, or static dischargers, and they actually have a very important function. ... “When an aircraft is in flight it is continuously rubbing against the atmosphere.

"They help the energy of the lightning leave the aircraft safely." Several issues could arise if the static wicks weren't attached - including sparks causing a fire, or static interfering with ...

These static wicks, like those fitted to passenger aircraft of all sizes play an important role in discharging the potential for the electrical ignition of fuel vapor by sparking upon a mid-air ...

These static wicks, like those fitted to passenger aircraft of all sizes play an important role in discharging the potential for the electrical ignition of fuel vapor by sparking upon a mid-air ...

This is why checking the static wicks is an important task on any aircraft upkeep checklist. Want the latest in tech and auto trends? Subscribe to our free newsletter for the latest headlines ...