A loss-of-power incident is generally a survivable event as long as you keep your wits about you. One thing that could mean the difference between life and death is whether you leave the retractable gear up or down as you reach the point of your forced landing.
Flying Tip of the Week: Gear Up or Gear Down?
Key Takeaways:
- In a loss-of-power incident, the decision to land with retractable gear up or down is critical for survival.
- Generally, gear should be down for hard surfaces, but kept up for water, snow, or very soft surfaces (like mud) to prevent tumbling and entrapment.
- Pilots should plan ahead for various forced landing scenarios, consult their POH, and discuss with instructors to make rapid, informed decisions during emergencies.
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