cessna-172-training-supplement

7. Master Switches (Batt, Standby, & Alt).......................................................Off
Turning off electrical power from the standby and main battery and the
alternator will help reduce the chance of an electrical spark, as well as
turning off the fuel pumps if on, which could prevent a fire.
8. Doors...........................................................................................................Unlatch
Unlatching the cabin door can prevent the door from becoming
wedged in the airframe. If a hard landing distorts the door frame, a
stuck door can prevent the occupants from safely exiting the airplane.
Prior to touchdown, tighten seat belts and shoulder harnesses.
Touchdown at slowest possible airspeed.
9. Brakes.............................................................................................. Apply Heavily
NOTE: Never land “off-airport” with electrical power or fuel turned
on! At the very least, ensure that the mixture, fuel selector,
magnetos, and master battery switch are all turned to the off
position.
If the engine fails after rotation but below 800’ AGL, landing options are very
limited. If there is runway remaining, transition to a landing configuration and
touch down on the remaining runway. Using the entire runway (instead of an
intersection departure or stop-and-go) lets the pilot obtain a higher altitude
within the airport environment and provides more survivable landing options.
Airspeed control is still vitally important; touch down at the slowest possible
landing speed with full flaps. Mitigate the risk of running off the end of the
runway and hitting obstructions by shutting down fuel and electrical sources by
following the previously listed checklist items.
If the engine failure occurs below 800’ AGL, there may be a temptation to try
a 180° turn back to the runway. Accomplishing this turn successfully is very
unlikely, and it should not be attempted. The FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam)
article “Impossible Turn” discusses the dangers of attempting the 180° turn back
to the runway.
The best option for survival with a complete loss of power below 800 feet AGL
is to maneuver slightly, up to 30° left or right, toward the most suitable landing
spot and follow the steps in the emergency checklist listed above. Chapter 18 in
the Airplane Flying Handbook (AFH) is devoted to emergency procedures and is
a great resource.
Departure Procedures • 27