Pilots are trained to handle engine failures with specific procedures depending on the situation, primarily focusing on maintaining control of the aircraft and landing safely.
Here's a breakdown of the actions pilots take when an engine fails:
- Immediate Actions: The pilot's first priority is to maintain control of the aircraft. This involves:
- Maintaining airspeed: Adjusting the aircraft's pitch and power on the remaining engine(s) to maintain the appropriate airspeed for the situation.
- Controlling the aircraft's attitude: Ensuring the wings are level and the aircraft is stable.
- Diagnosis: The pilot needs to quickly determine which engine has failed and the cause of the failure, if possible.
- Engine Failure Procedures: Pilots follow specific procedures outlined in the aircraft's flight manual. These procedures vary depending on the type of aircraft and the phase of flight. Generally, they involve:
- Identifying and securing the failed engine.
- Adjusting power on the remaining engine(s).
- Maintaining airspeed and altitude.
- Communicating with air traffic control.
- Landing: The pilot will assess the situation and decide on the best course of action for landing. The procedures followed here depend on the phase of flight when the engine failed. As outlined in the reference, specific procedures are followed after takeoff:
- Immediately after liftoff: If the engine fails immediately after liftoff, the pilot will attempt to land straight ahead on the remaining runway if possible, while maintaining control. Maximum braking after touchdown is crucial.
- Beyond the point of safe landing: If the engine fails beyond a point where landing on the runway is possible, the pilot must do the best they can to find a suitable landing spot.
| Phase of Flight | Action |
|---|---|
| Immediately after takeoff | Land straight ahead on the remaining runway with maximum braking after touchdown. |
| Past Safe Landing Point | Do the best you can to find a suitable landing spot, prioritizing control and minimizing impact forces. |
