Why is the de-icing holdover time important on a ramp?

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Holdover time is the period after de-icing/anti-icing fluid is applied during which the fluid is expected to keep the aircraft surfaces free of ice under the current conditions. On the ramp, this matters because it tells ground crews when the protection may expire and a reapplication is needed to ensure the aircraft remains ice-free until takeoff. Holdover time depends on the fluid type and the actual weather—temperature, precipitation, wind, and how quickly contamination may occur. If the holdover time passes or conditions worsen, reapplying fluid helps prevent ice buildup that could affect aerodynamics, performance, and safety. It doesn’t relate to traffic control, vehicle speeds, or repainting.