Engine failure is one of the most critical situations that can occur during a flight. It is crucial for pilots to be well-versed in the engine failure procedure (EFP) to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone on board. In aviation, the engine failure procedure refers to the set of actions and guidelines that pilots follow in the event of an engine failure or malfunction. These procedures are designed to help pilots regain control, maintain stability, and safely land the aircraft.
Engine failures can occur due to various reasons such as mechanical issues, fuel problems, or even external factors like bird strikes. Regardless of the cause, pilots are trained to execute the engine failure procedure swiftly and effectively to minimize the risks associated with such an event.
The Engine Failure Procedure (EFP)
The engine failure procedure, also known as the EFP, is a step-by-step process that pilots must follow when faced with an engine failure or malfunction. It is essential to adhere to these procedures to ensure the best possible outcome in a challenging situation.
1. Identify the problem: When an engine failure occurs, the first step is for pilots to identify and acknowledge the problem. They must quickly determine which engine has failed and assess the severity of the situation. This identification is crucial as it helps in subsequent decision-making processes.
2. Establish the appropriate aircraft configuration: Once the problem is identified, pilots need to configure the aircraft appropriately. They may need to adjust the aircraft’s attitude, speed, and other parameters to ensure stability and control. The configuration may vary depending on factors such as altitude, aircraft type, and the stage of flight.
3. Execute the memory items: Pilots are trained to memorize specific actions and procedures for engine failures. These memory items are critical as they allow pilots to quickly and efficiently address the immediate concerns associated with the engine failure. They may include actions such as selecting the appropriate fuel supply, adjusting power settings, or engaging emergency systems.
4. Consult the checklist: In addition to executing the memory items, pilots must also consult the aircraft’s checklist for engine failures. The checklist provides a comprehensive and systematic set of actions to be taken to address the issue. Pilots refer to the checklist to ensure they have covered all necessary steps and to mitigate the risk of missing critical actions.
5. Communicate with air traffic control: During an engine failure situation, pilots must maintain open communication with air traffic control (ATC) to ensure they receive guidance and assistance. They inform ATC about their situation and intentions, enabling ATC to provide necessary support, such as rerouting or prioritized landing clearance.
6. Evaluate the options: As part of the engine failure procedure, pilots must constantly assess the available options and make informed decisions based on the aircraft’s performance, remaining engine(s), and the proximity to suitable landing sites. Factors such as weather conditions, terrain, and the availability of airports play a crucial role in determining the best course of action. Pilots may consider the possibility of conducting a single-engine landing or diverting to an alternate airport.
Handling Single Engine Failures
In the event of a single engine failure, pilots follow specific procedures to maintain control and safely land the aircraft. These procedures vary depending on the aircraft type and specific circumstances, but the common steps for handling single-engine failures are as follows:
1. Engine shutdown: The first step is to shut down the failed engine. This is done to prevent any further damage or complications caused by the malfunctioning engine. The procedure may involve moving the engine control lever to the idle or cutoff position, cutting off the fuel supply, or activating the fire suppression system if necessary.
2. Maintaining control: After shutting down the failed engine, pilots must ensure they maintain control of the aircraft. This may involve adjusting the aircraft’s attitude, trim, and power settings to compensate for the loss of thrust. Pilots need to be proactive in maintaining stability to prevent any adverse effects on the aircraft’s behavior.
3. Declaring an emergency: Pilots have the responsibility to declare an emergency to air traffic control when faced with an engine failure. This declaration allows ATC to prioritize their request for assistance and potentially clear the way for an expedited approach and landing. Timely and accurate communication is crucial in such situations to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants.
4. Navigating to a suitable landing site: Pilots need to assess the available landing sites and choose the most suitable option considering the aircraft’s remaining capabilities and the environmental conditions. They may need to rely on backup navigational aids, perform calculations to determine the required descent profile, and communicate their intentions with air traffic control.
5. Prepared landing and touchdown: Pilots must plan and execute a safe landing with only one operational engine. They need to ensure they have the appropriate approach speed, maintain adequate energy throughout the approach, and perform a controlled touchdown to minimize the risk of any further damage or loss of control. Landing with a single engine requires precise control inputs and careful coordination to maintain directional control.
Engine Failure Procedure: Training and Simulations
Engine failure procedures are a critical aspect of pilot training, and pilots undergo rigorous training and simulations to ensure their competence in handling such situations. The training aims to familiarize pilots with the necessary actions and decision-making processes required during engine failures.
Pilots typically undergo extensive classroom instruction, where they learn the theoretical concepts and procedures associated with engine failures. This includes studying aircraft manuals, understanding emergency checklists, and learning about aircraft systems and limitations.
Furthermore, pilots engage in simulator-based training, which allows them to experience and practice engine failures in a controlled and realistic environment. Simulators are equipped with sophisticated software and hardware to provide an immersive training experience. Pilots practice various scenarios and learn to manage the challenges associated with engine failures, including decision-making, communication, and handling emergencies.
The use of simulators enables pilots to develop and refine their skills without compromising the safety of a real aircraft and its occupants. It offers a safe and controlled environment to practice engine failure procedures repeatedly, ensuring pilots are well-prepared to handle such situations if they occur during an actual flight.
Overall, the engine failure procedure is an essential part of aviation safety. Pilots are trained and equipped to handle engine failures with a systematic and well-defined procedure. By following the EFP, pilots can effectively manage the situation, regain control, and safely land the aircraft. Regular training and simulations further enhance pilots’ competence and preparedness, ensuring they can confidently handle engine failures when faced with this critical situation.
For More: What is CASS in Aviation? (Commercial Air Service Standards)