Emergency landing exercises: A fixed training programme for emergencies
The scenario usually begins with an unexpected instruction from the flight instructor: the power lever is reset to idle and the instruction to simulate an engine failure is given. Pilots are then required to maintain the speed for the best glide, select a suitable landing field and coordinate the necessary procedures.
Regularly carrying out such exercises helps you to remain capable of acting in an emergency and maintain control of the aircraft. The focus is on avoiding panic and keeping a clear head. However, these exercises are not without risks, especially if they are carried out in densely populated or nature conservation areas.
Challenges during implementation
In regions with intensive development and many obstacles, such as power lines or terrain structures, flight instructors must proceed with caution. Overflights of sensitive areas such as nature reserves or places with large gatherings of people are not only problematic for the environment, but also for the image of aviation.
Inappropriate manoeuvres, such as low overflights with a sudden increase in power, can frighten both animals and people. The risk of disturbance is particularly high in nature reserves, where animals and recreational users are often out and about. Today, the proliferation of smartphones also makes it easy to document and publicise such incidents, which can tarnish the reputation of general aviation.
Consideration for people and nature
The importance of nature conservation has increased in recent decades. The habitat for wild animals in Central Europe has become much smaller due to urbanisation, and the remaining refuges are of great importance. Flight instructors and their students therefore have a special responsibility not to put additional pressure on these areas.
Many pilots are aware of this responsibility and take noise-sensitive zones into account when planning their flights. Nevertheless, there are smaller protected areas that are less well known and difficult to recognise. Low-level flights, even if they are legal, can cause considerable annoyance there.
Technical aids for better planning
Fortunately, there are numerous digital tools available in Switzerland and other countries to help plan emergency landing exercises responsibly. The Swiss platform "map.geo.admin", for example, offers detailed maps showing protected areas, marshland and aviation obstacles. Navigation applications such as "Airnavigation Pro" and the "swisstopo app" also make it possible to keep an eye on sensitive zones during the flight.
Regulations and international differences
The regulations for emergency landing exercises vary from country to country. In Germany, for example, such exercises may only be carried out up to an altitude of 500 feet without special authorisation. Similarly restrictive regulations apply in other countries. Careful preparation and clarification of local regulations is therefore essential, especially if emergency landing exercises are planned abroad.
Conclusion: safety and the environment in harmony
Emergency landing exercises are an indispensable component of pilot training. However, carrying them out requires a responsible approach to the environment and people on the ground. By using modern planning aids and foresighted flight preparation, pilots can ensure that such exercises are carried out both efficiently and considerately. This not only protects animals and nature, but also helps to preserve the reputation of general aviation in the long term.
Source references:
Flieger.News
