Definition
The specific actions a pilot takes to manage an abnormal or hazardous in-flight situation, such as engine failure, fire, electrical malfunction, or loss of control. These procedures are published by the aircraft manufacturer in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) and are practiced regularly so they can be performed correctly under stress.
Plain English
The set steps a pilot follows when something goes wrong in the airplane. They are written down by the manufacturer and practiced often so the pilot can act quickly and correctly when it matters.
Context Anchor
In the Airplane Flying Handbook collision avoidance chapter, this term appears in the broader discussion of staying alert, avoiding hazards, and knowing what to do if a dangerous situation develops.
Derivation
From Latin 'emergere' meaning 'to rise out' or 'come forth' -- an emergency is a situation that suddenly arises and demands immediate attention. 'Procedure' comes from Latin 'procedere,' to go forward in steps. Together: a set sequence of steps for handling something that has suddenly gone wrong.
Why Pilots Care
Following the correct emergency procedures gives the highest chance of a safe outcome and prevents the situation from worsening.
Intuition Check
Do not read Emergency Procedures as “whatever the pilot decides in the moment.” In aviation, it means known, practiced steps for handling a serious situation safely.
Example Sentence 1
During training, the instructor pulled the throttle to idle and asked the student to run through the engine failure emergency procedures.
Example Sentence 2
During the checkride the examiner simulated a vacuum failure and the applicant completed the emergency procedures without hesitation.