Linear trend maps indicate that since the start of the satellite record, summer ice extent is on the decline.
Does this mean that we are headed for an ice-free Arctic?
Probably not. First, ice extent is at 75% of the 30 year NSIDC mean. That is a long ways away from zero.
But more importantly, what is driving the reduction in extent is wind, which is compacting the ice towards the pole – where temperatures are colder and the melt season is shorter.
This weather pattern makes it more difficult to achieve an ice free Arctic. Thicker ice near the pole in mid-September has almost no chance of melting out.
Conclusion : It is a mistake to extrapolate an ice-free Arctic based on recent weather patterns. An ice-free Arctic would require much warmer summers north of 80N, and spreading of the ice. There is no indication either is happening.
http://ocean.dmi.dk/arctic/meant80n.uk.php