Definition
In-flight situations caused by partial or complete loss of engine power, or by engine malfunctions that threaten continued safe flight. These include total power failure, partial power loss, rough running, fuel starvation, oil system failure, and induction or ignition problems. In a single-engine airplane, any significant engine problem typically requires an immediate decision about where to land, since a glide to a suitable surface may be the only option.
Plain English
Anything that goes wrong with the engine in flight that forces the pilot to deal with reduced or lost power. In a single-engine airplane, this usually means setting up a glide and finding somewhere to land.
Context Anchor
Seen in glide training and emergency practice, especially when discussing what to do if engine power is reduced, lost, or no longer dependable.
Derivation
Engine comes through French from a Latin word meaning skill, device, or contrivance. Emergency comes from Latin words meaning to rise up or come into view. Together, the phrase points to engine problems that suddenly come up and must be handled immediately.
Why Pilots Care
Engine failure is a leading cause of forced landings; knowing how to handle it turns a potential accident into a controlled outcome.
Intuition Check
Do not assume an engine-related emergency only means the engine has completely stopped. It can also mean the engine is running badly, losing power, overheating, burning, or showing signs that it may not keep working safely.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor reviewed engine-related emergencies before the flight, including how to establish best glide speed and select a landing site if power is lost.
Example Sentence 2
Practice in the glides chapter prepares the pilot to troubleshoot briefly then commit to landing during engine-related emergencies.