Definition
The set of actions a pilot performs when an engine fails or is intentionally shut down in flight, including establishing the best glide speed, selecting a suitable landing area, attempting a restart if appropriate, securing the failed engine, and communicating the situation. In multi-engine aircraft, these procedures also include identifying the failed engine, controlling yaw, feathering the propeller, and managing the remaining engine for continued flight.
Plain English
The steps a pilot takes when an engine quits, so the aircraft stays under control and reaches a safe landing.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight training scenarios, emergency checklists, takeoff briefings, and instructor-led practice for engine failure situations.
Derivation
Engine-out uses “out” in the practical sense of “out of service” or “not available.” In aviation, it means the engine’s power is no longer available enough to rely on.
Why Pilots Care
Following the correct sequence after engine failure gives the pilot the best chance of a safe outcome instead of losing control or landing short.
Intuition Check
Engine-out does not always mean the engine is physically damaged or completely stopped. It means the pilot must act as if engine power is unavailable or not dependable.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor pulled the throttle to idle and asked the student to demonstrate engine-out procedures.
Example Sentence 2
The instructor called for engine-out procedures during the training flight to practice the emergency checklist flow.