Loss of Thrust on Takeoff

I have written far too many stories about fatal accidents that were attributed to an uncommanded loss of engine power.

Tuesday, February 06, 2024 at 11:06 AM ET

Verified

When flying with another pilot, the loss of thrust or controllability on takeoff briefing needs to include who will be pilot flying, because two pilots fighting over the controls is not going to help. [Image by Tom Gouw/Pexels]

Key Takeaways:

The fatal accident involving highly experienced pilots highlights the universal risk and critical importance of preparing for engine loss on takeoff (LOTOTO).
Many fatal LOTOTO accidents stem from pilots failing to maintain appropriate airspeed or attempting unsafe turns back to the runway, often due to inadequate pre-takeoff briefing and training.
To mitigate risk, pilots must proactively brief for LOTOTO by knowing critical emergency airspeeds, calculating takeoff performance and abort points, and rehearsing actions for engine loss, prioritizing landing straight ahead if usable runway is unavailable.

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“We have a problem, and we’re returning to the airport.”

These were the words of Richard McSpadden Jr., who was aboard the Cessna 177RG Cardinal belonging to former NFL tight end turned FBO owner Russ Francis. The pair launched from the airport in Lake Placid, New York, on October 1 for a photo flight for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. McSpadden, the senior vice president of the AOPA Air Safety Institute, was a commercially rated pilot who had flown with the Air Force Thunderbirds.