Handling an Engine Failure at Cruising Altitude: A Comprehensive Guide for Airmen

Introduction

Engine failures during cruising flight are rare but crucial for pilots to understand and prepare for. This article delves into the procedures and strategies airmen should follow when an engine fails at cruising altitude, encompassing the immediate handling of the aircraft, the landing process, and lessons learned from historical incidents.

Understanding the Immediate Response to an Engine Failure

During cruising flight, if an engine fails, the aircraft will initially yaw towards the inoperative engine. This yaw is counteracted by using the rudder to eliminate the drift. It's important to note that twin-engine transport category aircraft typically cannot maintain cruise altitude with one engine failed. In most cases, the operating engine will drive the aircraft to a suitable diversion airport. Depending on the distance, the pilot may crossfeed the fuel to the operating engine's wing tank or open a cross-flow valve to allow fuel to flow from the inoperative engine tank to the operating engine tank.

Lessons Learned from the 1960 Incident

In 1960, at a small independent flight school, a pilot encountered an unusual situation during a takeoff. His aim was to instill a working knowledge of the aircraft's mechanics in his students. This brief discussion on magneto timing and throttle operation proved invaluable seventeen years later. One day, while flying a Cherokee 140, the pilot noticed the engine starting to run rough. By switching the magneto selection and adjusting the throttle, he managed to keep the engine running in spurts to manage the descent and return to the airport, where the engine finally stopped completely. The airframe remained intact, and both the pilot and student were safe. The discovery of severely deteriorated timing gears in the magnetos substantiated the importance of the earlier lesson.

Procedures for Landing Following an Engine Failure

Upon approach to a diversion airport, the aircraft's operating engine's thrust must be reduced, and the pilot should follow the one-engine-inoperative (OEI) landing checklist. This checklist ensures that the pilot has all necessary procedures and preparations in place for a safe landing. In certain cases, reduced flap settings might be required to ensure the possibility of executing an engine-out missed approach.

Post-landing, the crew must assess whether the aircraft can be safely taxied to a parking area to deplane passengers or if it must be towed.

Lessons and Best Practices

From this incident, it is clear that pilots should:

Be knowledgeable about magneto timing and throttle operation: Understanding these mechanisms can help pilots keep the engine running for a longer period during an emergency. Have a comprehensive understanding of the aircraft: Pilots should be familiar with the aircraft's systems, including the fuel system and the procedures for handling engine failures. Regularly maintain and inspect the aircraft: This can prevent the kinds of issues that led to the 1960 incident, such as deteriorated timing gears. Understand the OEI landing checklist: Pilots should be thoroughly trained and familiar with the checklist to ensure a safe landing sequence. Stay calm and maintain control: In an emergency, maintaining composure and making calculated decisions is crucial.

The incident also highlights the importance of continuous learning and applying theoretical knowledge in practical situations. By understanding and practicing these procedures, pilots can better handle unexpected situations and ensure the safety of their passengers and the airframe.

Conclusion

Engine failures at cruising altitude can be alarming, but with the right knowledge and procedures, pilots can navigate through the emergency and ensure a safe landing. This article has provided a detailed overview of the handling procedures and best practices for an engine failure on a twin-engine aircraft during cruising flight. By keeping in mind the lessons learned from historical incidents, pilots can be better prepared for any eventuality.