A300
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Time Pressure; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue; Inflight Event / Encounter Weather / Turbulence
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; Flight Crew FLC complied w / Automation / Advisory; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft; Weather
Descending through clouds at FL240 an engine anti-ice valve faulted on Number 1 engine.  QRH and ECAM procedures were to avoid clouds and icing conditions.  I elected to turn with Center clearance 70 degrees to the left to remain clear of clouds.  Due to fuel requirements going into this airport we had no choice; but to fly through a lower overcast layer.  No icing conditions were present.  Once we were on the ground a maintenance log write up was made referencing the faulted light and penetration into clouds.  In the jumpseat we had a FAA inspector.  We discussed the descent and all agreed there was no other choice; but to descend through the overcast layer.
An A300 number 1 engine anti-ice valve faulted during descent through overcast at FL240 so the crew asked for deviation clear of clouds; only penetrating a non-freezing layer before landing.