Definition
A condition in which an aircraft engine ceases to produce usable power, either partially or completely, due to mechanical breakdown, fuel starvation, fuel exhaustion, ignition system failure, induction problems, or other causes that interrupt normal combustion or power transfer.
Plain English
The engine stops making power, or stops running entirely, while the aircraft is operating.
Context Anchor
Seen in fuel and oil discussions, preflight planning, in-flight power checks, and emergency procedures for selecting a safe landing area.
Derivation
Engine comes from an old word meaning a device or machine. Failure comes from a word meaning to fall short or not perform. Together, engine failure means the power-producing machine is no longer doing its job well enough for flight.
Why Pilots Care
Engine failure demands immediate action to maintain aircraft control and execute an emergency landing, directly affecting flight safety.
Intuition Check
Engine failure does not always mean the engine has physically broken apart or stopped turning. It means the engine is no longer producing enough usable power for normal flight.
Example Sentence 1
After takeoff, the pilot noticed a sudden drop in RPM and manifold pressure, recognized the engine failure, and immediately pitched for best glide.
Example Sentence 2
During training, the instructor simulated engine failure by closing the throttle to practice the proper emergency descent procedure.