How do civil aviation professionals handle emergencies?

1 Engine failures

One of the most feared scenarios for pilots and passengers alike is an engine failure, especially during takeoff or landing. However, civil aviation professionals are trained and equipped to handle such situations with minimal risk. Pilots follow a checklist of actions to diagnose the problem, secure the affected engine, and fly the aircraft to the nearest suitable airport. They also communicate with air traffic control and the cabin crew to coordinate the emergency landing and evacuation. Depending on the aircraft type, pilots may use a single engine, a backup engine, or a glide approach to land safely.

4 Weather hazards

Weather hazards are environmental factors that can affect the safety and performance of civil aviation operations. They include thunderstorms, icing, turbulence, fog, wind shear, and volcanic ash. Civil aviation professionals use various sources of information, such as weather reports, forecasts, radar, and satellite images, to plan, monitor, and adjust their flights according to the weather conditions. They also use their instruments, procedures, and experience to avoid or cope with weather hazards. For example, they may change their route, altitude, or speed to avoid thunderstorms or turbulence, or use de-icing systems or anti-icing fluids to prevent ice buildup.

5 Mechanical malfunctions

Mechanical malfunctions are faults or failures that affect the systems or components of the aircraft, such as the landing gear, the brakes, the hydraulics, or the electrical system. Civil aviation professionals use various tools and techniques to detect, diagnose, and resolve mechanical malfunctions. They include warning lights, alarms, indicators, checklists, manuals, and troubleshooting guides. Pilots use their knowledge and skills to operate the aircraft with the remaining systems or using alternative methods. They also communicate with the maintenance staff and the air traffic control to coordinate the repair or the diversion of the flight.

6 Human factors

Human factors are psychological, physiological, or social aspects that can influence the performance and behavior of civil aviation professionals. They include stress, fatigue, workload, communication, teamwork, and decision making. Civil aviation professionals use various strategies and resources to manage and mitigate human factors. They include training, briefing, debriefing, standard operating procedures, crew resource management, and peer support. They also use their self-awareness, professionalism, and ethics to recognize and report any issues that may affect their ability or suitability to perform their duties.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?