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PANIC? Don’t!

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Always anticipate potential engine failure by having a departure plan, considering altitude for turns versus straight-ahead landings, and continuously scouting for emergency landing sites while en route.
  • Upon engine failure, immediately pitch for best glide speed to maintain control and select the most suitable emergency landing site.
  • Follow a systematic emergency procedure: investigate potential causes for an engine restart (flow check), and if unsuccessful, communicate the emergency (squawk 7700, emergency call) while focusing on flying the aircraft to a safe landing.
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With airplanes being as reliable as they are, it’s easy to have a little too much confidence in their ability to keep us flying. But if an engine failure were to rear its ugly face, you’ll be glad you spent some time anticipating its arrival.

Always have a plan in mind for an engine failure on departure. If you don’t have enough runway to safely put the aircraft back down on the tarmac, remember that a successful 180-degree turn back to the airport can generally be completed only if you’re at least 800 hundred feet or more above the ground. Consider potential landing sites straight ahead.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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