Engine Out Emergencies Engine Out Emergencies

   In general, the operating and flight characteristics of modern light twins with one engine inoperative are excellent. These airplanes can be controlled and maneuvered safely as long as sufficient airspeed is maintained. However, to utilize the safety and performance characteristics effectively, the pilot must have a sound understanding of the single engine performance and the limitations resulting from an unbalance of power.

   A pilot checking out for the first time in any multiengine airplane should practice and become thoroughly familiar with the control and performance problems which result from the failure of one engine during any flight condition. Practice in all the control operations and precautions is necessary and demonstration of these is required on multiengine rating flight tests. Practice should be continued as long as the pilot engages in flying a twin engine airplane, so that corrective action will be instinctive and the ability to control airspeed, heading, and altitude will be retained.

   The feathering of a propeller should be demonstrated and practiced in all airplanes equipped with propellers which can be feathered and unfeathered safely in flight. If the airplane used is not equipped with feathering propellers, or is equipped with propellers which cannot be feathered and unfeathered safely in flight, one engine should be secured (shut down) in accordance with the procedures in the FAA approved Airplane Flight Manual or the Pilot's Operating Handbook. The recommended propeller setting should be used, and the emergency setting of all ignition, electrical hydraulic, and fire extinguisher systems should be demonstrated.