PPL Checkride Guide
← Area IX. Emergency Operations

Task IX.F

Engine Failure After Liftoff (Simulated)

AMELAMES

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with engine failure after liftoff.

Note: See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight and Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations for information related to this Task.

References: FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM

Knowledge6 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.IX.F.K1Factors affecting minimum controllable speed (VMC).
  • PA.IX.F.K2VMC (red line), VYSE (blue line), and safe single-engine speed (VSSE).
  • PA.IX.F.K3Accelerate/stop and accelerate/go distances.
  • PA.IX.F.K4How to identify, verify, feather, and secure an inoperative engine.
  • PA.IX.F.K5Importance of drag reduction, including propeller feathering, gear and flap retraction, the manufacturer’s recommended control input and its relation to zero sideslip.
  • PA.IX.F.K6Simulated propeller feathering and the evaluator’s zero-thrust procedures and responsibilities.
Risk Management5 elements

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

  • PA.IX.F.R1Potential engine failure after lift-off.
  • PA.IX.F.R2Collision hazards.
  • PA.IX.F.R3Configuring the airplane.
  • PA.IX.F.R4Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
  • PA.IX.F.R5Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skills10 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.IX.F.S1Promptly recognize an engine failure, maintain control, and use appropriate emergency procedures.
  • PA.IX.F.S2Establish VYSE; if obstructions are present, establish best single-engine angle of climb speed (VXSE) or VMC +5 knots, whichever is greater, until obstructions are cleared. Then transition to VYSE.
  • PA.IX.F.S3Reduce drag by retracting landing gear and flaps in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance.
  • PA.IX.F.S4Simulate feathering the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust on the inoperative engine).
  • PA.IX.F.S5Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to maintain best performance, and trim as required.
  • PA.IX.F.S6Monitor the operating engine and aircraft systems and make adjustments as necessary.
  • PA.IX.F.S7Recognize the airplane’s performance capabilities. If a climb is not possible at VYSE, maintain VYSE and return to the departure airport for landing, or initiate an approach to the most suitable landing area available.
  • PA.IX.F.S8Simulate securing the inoperative engine.
  • PA.IX.F.S9Maintain heading ±10° and airspeed ±5 knots.
  • PA.IX.F.S10Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Overview

Study notes for Engine Failure After Liftoff (Simulated) are coming soon. The official ACS elements for this task are listed above — use them as your checklist while the full study guide is being written.

Key Knowledge

Content coming soon.

Common DPE Questions

Content coming soon.

References

FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; FAA-P-8740-66; POH/AFM