Abnormals

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

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Pilots require a deep understanding of aircraft systems, beyond standard checklists, to diagnose and manage novel or complex in-flight emergencies, as not all potential issues are explicitly covered.
For partial engine failures, troubleshooting involves systematically addressing fuel, air, and spark components using cockpit instruments and controls; control system issues often stem from obstructions or environmental factors like ice.
In the event of a partial landing gear extension, pilots should prioritize passenger safety and minimize damage by communicating with ATC, choosing a suitable airport, and executing a controlled landing, accepting potential airframe damage.

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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.