AviationEngine failure in a single-engine airplane: what the checkride asks
On the FAA private pilot checkride, Emergency Operations is an area of the test. This guide follows the official Airman Certification Standards and the Aeronautical Information Manual.
Free to startWhat is evaluated
The Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (FAA-S-ACS-6C) set what the checkride evaluates. For single-engine airplanes, Area of Operation IX covers the emergency descent, the simulated emergency approach and landing, systems and equipment malfunctions, and emergency equipment and survival gear.
Flying the emergency approach
You hold best glide speed within 10 knots, pick a suitable field, plan the path to it, configure the airplane, prepare for landing and complete the checklists. In the emergency descent you bank 30 to 45 degrees, hold the airspeed within plus 0 and minus 10 knots and level off within 100 feet of the assigned altitude.
The radio call
The Aeronautical Information Manual sets the distress call: MAYDAY three times, then the distress message with position, intentions and people on board, and code 7700 if you are not in contact with ATC. Practice every step free with Blocky.
Official sources
What the checkride evaluates
The Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards lists the knowledge, risk management and skills for the emergency descent and the simulated emergency approach and landing.
How to fly the emergency
Airplane Flying Handbook, chapter 18 explains the approach, the configuration, the terrain and the engine failure after takeoff.
What to say on the radio
The Aeronautical Information Manual, section 6-3 gives the distress message, the emergency frequencies and the 7700 transponder code.
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