Why Is a Partial Loss of Engine Power So Dangerous?

Subtle powerplant issues often catch pilots off guard, but there are ways to handle them safely.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Private single-engine, piston-powered aircraft taxis at an airfield. [Credit: FLYING Archives]

Key Takeaways:

Partial engine power loss is often subtle and gradual, frequently catching pilots by surprise due to causes like carburetor icing or fuel issues, compounded by a psychological resistance to believe it's happening.
Pilots must prepare by thoroughly reviewing emergency procedures for all flight phases and being ready to immediately abort takeoff for any engine abnormality, verbalizing the process to prevent freezing.
During cruise, utilize altitude to troubleshoot and identify potential landing sites using the ABCDEs (Airspeed, Best place, Checklist, Declare, Evacuate), and always ensure a mechanic inspects the aircraft after any unscheduled landing before further flight.

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Question: In ground school we are learning about accident reports and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). I was surprised to learn how many accidents begin when the pilot experiences a partial loss of power, which leads to a crash. If you still have some engine power, shouldn’t you be able to make a landing? And how are we supposed to practice this?

Answer: Speaking as someone who spent 15 years writing up NTSB reports, I can say that a partial loss of engine power can catch a pilot by surprise because often it is so subtle. Often there isn’t a dramatic backfire and oil over the windscreen like there is in the movies.