Abnormals

Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Many in-flight emergencies, especially "partial" failures (engine, control systems, landing gear), are not fully covered by checklists, requiring a deep understanding of aircraft systems and adaptive problem-solving.
Pilots can troubleshoot partial engine failures by systematically checking fuel, air, and spark components using cockpit instruments and controls (e.g., mag checks, carb heat, fuel pumps).
For control system malfunctions (e.g., jammed controls, split flaps) and partial landing gear extensions, diagnostic steps involve checking for external factors (ice, obstructions) and employing specific landing strategies to minimize damage.
Intimate aircraft knowledge, careful pre-flight preparation, and a willingness to land at the nearest suitable facility after any in-flight anomaly are crucial for safe resolution.

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Things can go “bump” in the night. Daytime, too. Most of them either have been considered before or encountered by someone, resulting in a section of your AFM/POH labeled “Emergency Procedures.”
But not everything that can happen is covered there: Pilots are constantly inventing new ways to screw up, and the aircraft themselves can present something new and different, or at least something that appears new and different, especially as they age. The bad news is there’s no checklist to cover everything that can go wrong. The good news? Some portion or combination of checklists might get you through. The better news? A solid understanding of how the aircraft’s systems work and their various failure modes provides you an excellent chance to get home.