How many static wicks are on each wing?

• A. 2
• B. 4
• C. 6
• D. 8

Answer: (B)

Static electricity buildup during flight must be discharged to protect avionics and keep radio communications clear, so aircraft use static wicks to bleed off charge into the air. The number and placement of these wicks are chosen by the electrical design of the airplane, and on this aircraft there are four static wicks on each wing. Spreading discharge along the trailing edge with four wicks helps keep charge more evenly distributed and reduces the risk of interference across the wing’s surfaces. Having only two per wing would provide less discharge capacity and could allow more charge to accumulate, while more than four per wing would add unnecessary weight and maintenance without additional benefit for this design.