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 sudden, catastrophic engine failure shortly after takeoff, forcing an immediate emergency landing.
Despite navigating challenges like power lines and a field full of cows, the pilot successfully executed an off-airport landing without injury to himself or his passenger, with the aircraft sustaining only engine damage.
The pilot attributes the successful outcome directly to consistent and rigorous emergency procedure training, emphasizing the importance of commitment to a chosen landing spot and 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.”