Mastering Emergency Landings: A Guide for Pilots with One Engine Failure During Landing

In the realm of aviation, safety is paramount, particularly when it comes to emergency situations. A single engine aircraft can safely land with only one engine operational, provided the pilot knows the appropriate procedures. This article delves into the procedures for such situations and provides insights into managing one of the most critical aspects: landing with a single engine.

Understanding Engine Failure During Landing

The ability of a single engine aircraft to land safely, even if one engine fails during landing, is a testament to modern aviation engineering. However, the reality is that in-flight engine failures do occur, and pilots are trained to manage these scenarios effectively. Engine failure can happen for various reasons, such as mechanical issues or operational errors, but the immediate concern is maintaining flight until a safe landing can be made.

Managing Asymmetric Thrust and Rudder Power

A single engine failure introduces a new challenge to pilots: asymmetric thrust. The loss of thrust from one side can overpower the rudder, leading to difficulty in controlling the aircraft's direction. This is why it is essential for pilots to develop skills specifically for handling these situations—additional training is indeed necessary to ensure safety. As the famous flight instructor would say, 'The other engine just takes you to the scene of the accident.'

Procedures for Single Engine Aircraft

The procedures for landing with a single engine are tailored to the specific needs of the aircraft. An initial step is to identify a clear area that can provide a forced landing option should the primary landing area fail. At all times, the pilot should maintain a view of a reasonable forced landing option within the glide range. If it is not possible to land immediately, the aircraft should be flown at the minimum descent speed to afford time for communication and an engine restart. In cases where immediate landing is necessary, the aircraft should be flown at the best glide speed to reach the landing area with spare altitude.

The pilot must then execute a glide approach, maintaining the target airspeed. This approach is designed to ensure a crash landing that is as controlled as possible. The goal is to hit the ground at a level surface, bleeding off speed to a stall, rather than plummeting from a height. It is crucial to avoid stalling 50 feet up or landing at an excessive speed. Precise control is also important to prevent sharp angles of impact or spinouts.

Signaling for Emergency Response

Time permitting, the pilot should use the Mayday call to alert emergency services, especially if the landing is on water. This proactive communication ensures that the appropriate response team is on standby. Proper communication during a single engine emergency can significantly improve the chances of a safe outcome.

Procedures for Multi-Engine Aircraft

The approach to landing with a single engine failure in a multi-engine aircraft is different. The first step is to identify and secure the failed engine, a procedure that varies by aircraft and powerplant type. The pilot should then work with ATC to locate the nearest suitable airport with a suitable runway. Ideally, this runway should be long enough to accommodate an emergency landing and should have emergency services and ideally engineering services on standby.

The engine out approach for a multi-engine aircraft requires careful management of airspeed. The minimum control airspeed (V_{mbox{mc}}) is a critical metric. Flying below this speed can lead to an uncontrollable departure from controlled flight, potentially resulting in a roll onto the back and a crash. The pilot must maintain at least the minimum control airspeed to ensure the aircraft remains controllable throughout the landing process.

In conclusion, mastering the art of emergency landing with a single engine requires a combination of training, experience, and adherence to strict procedures. Whether flying a single or multi-engine aircraft, pilot safety and the safety of those on the ground are paramount. By understanding and practicing these procedures, pilots can significantly enhance their ability to handle critical situations and ensure a safe landing.