I Learned About Flying From That: Putting Training to Work

H.L. O'Neal

Friday, April 17, 2015 at 11:18 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

A pilot experienced a catastrophic engine failure mid-flight, shortly after takeoff, forcing an immediate off-airport landing.
Despite encountering challenges like power lines and a field full of cows, the pilot skillfully executed a safe emergency landing without injury to occupants or further aircraft damage.
The successful resolution of the emergency underscores the critical importance of continuous pilot training and adherence to fundamental flying principles, especially maintaining airspeed.

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It was a beautiful day for flying. The takeoff from Waco Regional Airport in Waco, Texas, was routine and uneventful as I turned onto a northwest heading as indicated by the GPS. I had reduced from takeoff power to about 2,450 rpm and about 24 inches of manifold pressure. As I was leaving 1,500 feet and exiting Waco tower’s airspace, tower advised us to contact Fort Worth Center. I switched over and made the call.

“Fort Worth Center, Bonanza 9792R with you, 1,500 climbing to 2,500.”