Abstract: An anti-icing fluid suitable for ground treatment of aircraft, being a glycol-based solution containing a macromonomer-containing polymer thickener in an amount of less than about 5 weight %. The macromonomer-containing polymer thickener is present in the glycol-based solution in an amount sufficient to thicken the fluid to promote its adherence to aircraft surfaces when applied to a stationary aircraft. Use of this thickened deicing fluid does not adversely affect airfoil lift characteristics during takeoff, because the fluid exhibits shear thinning and readily flows off the aircraft surfaces when exposed to wind shear during the aircraft's takeoff run.