Photo Credit: University of Surrey

Scientists at the University of Surrey have designed a new type of aircraft sensor which they say can help pilots make safer decisions in real time.

The tiny units which are just three centimetres long help detect ice that can build up on the wings and hamper performance.

The new technology helps to give a much clearer picture of what’s happening to the wings and could also lead to improving fuel consumption due to less reliance on anti-icing systems.