What factor is critical during the descent in icing conditions for the CRJ 200?

During descent in icing conditions for the CRJ 200, activating wing anti-ice when indicated is essential for maintaining safe flight parameters. Ice can significantly alter the aircraft's aerodynamic characteristics, leading to increased drag and potential stall conditions. The wing anti-ice system is designed to prevent ice from forming on the leading edges of the wings, ensuring that the lift characteristics remain stable and that the aircraft can maintain control and performance throughout the descent.

In icing conditions, failure to activate wing anti-ice can result in ice accumulation, which negatively impacts aircraft performance and could lead to hazardous situations like loss of lift, difficulty controlling the aircraft, or even serious stall conditions. Therefore, monitoring conditions and responding by activating the anti-ice system is a critical step in ensuring a safe and controlled descent.