Approx 5 yrs ago, was SLF on a DC-9 departing ORD , late Feb, abt
2300. Steady rain as we taxied out, changed to hvy snow, and the wings were snow-covered as we reached the runway. We took off without delay or deice, but we seemed to use every inch of the available concrete.
I assume airtemp was above zero, and the ground temp definitely was above freezing, as the snow was melting for the most part.
Unsure of fuel load, we were only going to MSP, but the acft was full; I was the only standby who got a ride.
In retrospect, I should have asked the cabin crew to inform the flight crew of the white wings. Or is the -9 snow tolerant?