Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

During an engine failure on take-off, how should you handle obstacles?

1. Aim directly for the nearest field

2. Steer around major obstacles like power poles

3. Fly straight and level regardless of obstacles

4. Descend immediately

The correct answer is: Steer around major obstacles like power poles

In the event of an engine failure during take-off, handling obstacles is critical for survival. Steering around major obstacles, such as power poles, is important because it allows for maintaining control of the aircraft while avoiding potential collisions. When flying, especially during critical phases such as take-off, pilots must continuously assess their surroundings. If there's a significant obstacle in the flight path, it is safer to navigate around it, allowing for greater maneuverability and ensuring that the aircraft can maintain altitude and controlled flight. This action often helps the pilot to evaluate their available options for landing or gaining altitude if possible. Aiming directly for the nearest field may not always be practical if it means flying into hazards. While flying straight and level regardless of obstacles can lead to disastrous outcomes, as can an immediate descent without assessing the environment. Therefore, the most logical approach during an engine failure is to maneuver around known obstacles to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants.