As you can see in the picture, static dischargers ( commonly known as static wicks or static discharge wicks ) resemble small antennae which are on the fins and rear part of an aircraft’s wings (trailing edges and wing tips). Their number varies according to the size of the plane, and are made in general from carbon. Some helicopters have one.
Static discharge wicks are used as electrical conductors to facilitate the dispersion of the static electricity that builds up on the fuselage from friction of the air with an airplane’s metal parts in dry air environments, or extreme weather conditions (storm). They also allow the continuous satisfactory operation of onboard navigation and radio communication systems.
We went to an airport to get an answer from some passengers. Enjoy watching.
