ENGINE FAILURE! As pilots we dread them, however, with proper

training, understanding, and skill, we can greatly increase our

chances of survival if we ever experience one.

As a FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, I often witness checkrides

that expose possible errors or misunderstandings in our General

Aviation flight training. More often than not, the simulated engine

failure to an off field landing is an area in which most applicants

could benefit from additional training. In addition, the accident

statistics show engine failures are a very real possibility that most

pilots need to continually think about and prepare for long after the

checkride is over.

This article specifically addresses only failures in single engine

aircraft. To correctly train for an engine failure, CFI’s and students

both must accept that engine failures DO occur, and when one does

occur, a positive, safe outcome is dependent upon proper, realistic

training. What is often seen is an applicant that has memorized

the engine failure checklist, and can quote it verbatim, but does

not adhere to the items in the checklist, starting with the most

fundamental item: Establish and maintain best glide speed. Most

applicants quote a mantra, and SAY “establish best glide speed”, but

in many cases the aircraft is not FLOWN at best glide speed. This

is typically because the engine failure is simulated while flying at

cruise speed. For example, during the powerless glide, we will be

descending at 95 knots while VG is 69 knots. The reason for this is

that the aircraft was trimmed for 95 knots prior to the simulated

loss of power. While the applicant SAYS “establish best glide”,

and knows VG is 69 knots, they don’t FLY the plane at 69 knots,

and instead allow it to descend at the previously trimmed speed.

Unless the plane has some SIRI-like voice command, simply saying

“establish best glide speed” will have no effect. Pilots are supposed

to FLY the plane. Passengers buy tickets and RIDE in airplanes. So,

we need to seriously ask ourselves, are we pilots or passengers? If

you don’t know what to do with the plane and take action to make it

do what you want it to, then you are a passenger.