If a plane engine fails during takeoff, the immediate impact depends on factors like the type of aircraft (single-engine vs. multi-engine) and the speed at which the failure occurs. Let's break down what typically happens, focusing primarily on multi-engine aircraft, as single-engine aircraft do not have the redundancy of another engine.
Multi-Engine Aircraft Engine Failure During Takeoff
When a multi-engine aircraft experiences engine failure on takeoff, the following occurs:
- Yaw Towards the Failed Engine: According to the reference, the aircraft will yaw towards the failed engine. This is due to asymmetric thrust. With one engine producing power and the other not, a turning force is created.
Maintaining Control
The ability to maintain control depends largely on the aircraft's speed at the time of the engine failure compared to a critical speed known as Vmcg.
- Vmcg (Minimum Control Speed Ground): Vmcg is the minimum speed at which a multi-engine aircraft can maintain directional control on the ground (runway) after an engine failure, using only aerodynamic controls (rudder, ailerons, etc.).
Scenarios:
Let's look at two possible scenarios:
| Scenario | Description | Pilot Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure at or above Vmcg | The aircraft's airspeed is sufficient to allow the pilot to counteract the yawing force using the rudder. | The pilot will use rudder input to maintain directional control, continue the takeoff if sufficient runway remains and performance allows, or reject the takeoff if necessary. They will also feather the propeller of the failed engine (if possible) to reduce drag. |
| Engine Failure below Vmcg | The aircraft's airspeed is too low to effectively counteract the yawing force using rudder alone. | The pilot will typically reject the takeoff. Reducing thrust on the operating engine and applying brakes are crucial. Maintaining directional control becomes much more difficult. |
Key Considerations for Pilots:
- Immediate Recognition: Quick identification of the failed engine is crucial.
- Rudder Input: Applying immediate and correct rudder input is essential to counteract yaw.
- Thrust Management: Adjusting thrust on the remaining engine(s) as needed.
- Decision Making: Deciding whether to continue or reject the takeoff based on available runway, aircraft performance, and company procedures.
- Feathering: Feathering the propeller of the failed engine (if applicable) reduces drag.
- Airspeed Awareness: Continuous monitoring of airspeed is vital.
Single-Engine Aircraft Engine Failure During Takeoff
For a single-engine aircraft, an engine failure on takeoff is a critical emergency. Options are limited, and the pilot must act swiftly.
-
Immediate Actions: The pilot's immediate actions include:
- Maintaining airspeed.
- Quickly assessing the situation.
- Prioritizing a safe landing.
-
Landing Options:
- Attempting to land straight ahead on the remaining runway (if sufficient length is available).
- Turning to land on a suitable surface off the departure end of the runway (fields, roads, etc.). This is very risky and must be executed immediately.
