How Not To Ruin The Beginning Of Your Flight

The first few minutes of any mission are critical. A pro explains what can go wrong and how to keep that happening

Plane & Pilot

Friday, March 18, 2016 at 10:47 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The initial moments of single-engine flight, characterized by low speed, limited runway, and immediate obstacles, are identified as a critical and dangerous phase.
This high-risk scenario offers very few options if something goes wrong shortly after takeoff.
The article intends to provide strategies to improve safety and the odds of a successful outcome during this crucial segment of flight.

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Picture this: You’re in a single-engine airplane, barely at flying speed. The vast majority of the runway is in your rearview, the trees are out in front of you, and you’re hoping that nothing goes wrong, because there aren’t a lot of options. What to do to improve the odds on this most critical phase of flight.