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the nearest airport, unless one is immediately available. Initiate an emergency descent and get the aircraft on the ground, terminating at a lower attitude either with a forced landing or CAPS activation. Remember that even under CAPS, a pretty good rate of descent (1,300 fpm) can be maintained, so activating after slowing from the emergency descent is probably a quicker way of getting the plane on the ground than trying to set up for a forced landing.
Three Simple Words
The object here has been to deal with three major emergencies by committing to memory these three simple items: Air, Fuel and Ignition. They will focus your attention to each of the areas that need to be dealt with in handling these emergency situations. This may not work for everyone, but by remembering these three words you won’t forget any of the important steps in resolving these emergencies.
Fly safe, maintain aircraft control and always back up your actions with a checklist.
Bill is a longtime Platinum CSIP in addition to being
a course developer and educator for COPA Pilot Proficiency Programs. He holds an ATP certificate with multiple type ratings. Instructing for 40-plus years, Bill has over 4,000 hours in Cirrus aircraft, with his focus on instrument training and advanced aircraft transition.
Volume 14, Number 4
COPA Pilot ■ 55