What do static eliminators do?

• A. Collect static electricity from the aircraft and pass it rearward to reduce electrical interference
• B. Generate electrical power
• C. Act as antennas
• D. Provide cabin air filtration

Answer: (A)

Static eliminators, or static wicks, provide a controlled path for the aircraft’s built-up static electricity to dissipate into the atmosphere. As the plane moves, charge accumulates on the surfaces; the wicks extend from trailing edges and discharge this charge into the surrounding air, reducing electrical interference with radios and navigation equipment. They’re not power generators, nor are they antennas used for reception, and they don’t filter cabin air—their job is to prevent radio noise by safely dumping static charge away from the aircraft.