During cruise flight on a Part 121 flight, the pilot in command experiences a shutdown of one engine due to mechanical failure. Under 14 CFR 121.565, what is the PIC required to do?
- AContinue to the planned destination without notifying anyone unless a second engine fails
- BWait until postflight debrief to report the shutdown to maintenance control
- CNotify the appropriate dispatcher or ground radio station as soon as practicable and land at the nearest suitable airport if required by safety
- DNotify the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office only after landing
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Notify the appropriate dispatcher or ground radio station as soon as practicable and land at the nearest suitable airport if required by safety
14 CFR 121.565 requires that when a powerplant fails or is shut down for precautionary reasons, the PIC must notify the appropriate dispatch center or ground radio station as soon as practicable, giving details of the failure and the decision made. If continued safe flight is in question, the PIC must land at the nearest suitable airport, considering factors such as passenger safety, weather, and terrain.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Continuing without notification violates the immediate notification requirement of 121.565.
- B. Postflight reporting is far too late; the rule requires prompt in-flight notification.
- D. Notification is required in-flight, not delayed until after landing to an FSDO.
Engine Failure Notification (121.565)
Rule requiring PIC to notify dispatch or ground radio promptly after an engine failure/shutdown and land at nearest suitable airport if needed.
- PIC must notify dispatcher/ground station ASAP
- Must state nature of failure and decision made
- Must land at nearest suitable airport if safety requires it
Memory trick: Engine quits? Call it in, then land at the nearest safe spot.