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I Learned about Flying from That: Handling an Emergency at 29,000 Feet

A flight to Memphis in a Piaggio Avanti ended up having a lasting influence on one pilot's entire career. Barry Ross/BarryRossArt.com
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A charter pilot experienced an unexpected shattering of the inner windshield pane during a high-altitude descent, requiring an emergency response with a full cabin of passengers.
  • The incident underscored that many in-flight emergencies lack specific checklist guidance or training, emphasizing the need for pilots to think critically and apply broad system knowledge.
  • The most crucial lesson learned was a three-tiered emergency prioritization: first, pilot self-care; second, maintaining aircraft control; and third, ensuring passenger safety.
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I was irritated to receive a phone call assigning me to a flight the next day, which was both my wedding anniversary and Thanksgiving, but such is the life of a charter pilot.

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