What material is the middle layer of cockpit window laminates intended to be electrically?

• A. Electrically conductive metal
• B. Glass
• C. Plastic
• D. Ceramic

Answer: (A)

The middle layer is meant to be electrically conductive so it can act as the heating element for the windshield. In cockpit windshields, heating is essential to prevent ice and fog from forming on the glass at altitude and in various weather conditions. A thin conductive layer—often a metal film or coated metal interlayer—allows electrical current to pass through and evenly heat the pane, keeping visibility clear while still being laminated and protected between outer and inner panes. Glass, plastic, or ceramic by themselves are insulators and wouldn’t provide the necessary heating path, so they aren’t used as the functional middle layer for electrical heating.