During my 12-year flying career, I’ve had one engine failure. I was lucky. It happened during a takeoff in my Cessna 170, and thankfully the engine quit immediately after I applied full power on the runway. I was able to use what forward momentum I had achieved to roll onto the hard surface area between the runway and the taxiway. The experience made my heart beat a little quicker, but I never felt in danger.
While an engine failure immediately after takeoff is rare, it does happen. You may never have to experience this daunting event, but if you ever do you’ll be much more relaxed and in a better position to have a happy ending to the day if you’re prepared. A clear plan of action prior to rolling out on the runway can go a long way. It may even become the difference between life and death. This plan of action is worth verbalizing prior to every takeoff, whether you’re flying by yourself, with another pilot or with passengers.
