Airman Certification Standards
ACS AA.VII.D
Inflight Powerplant(s) Failure and Restart (AMEL, AMES)
Knowledge
Flight characteristics and controllability associated with maneuvering the airplane with powerplant(s) inoperative, including the importance of drag reduction.
Powerplant restart procedures and conditions where a restart attempt is appropriate.
Risk Management
Powerplant(s) failure.
Methods for handling a powerplant failure or a powerplant restart.
Diagnosis of the cause of the powerplant failure.
Collision hazards.
Configuring the airplane.
Factors and situations that could lead to an inadvertent stall, spin, and loss of control with an inflight powerplant failure.
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skill
Recognize and correctly identify powerplant(s) failure, complete memory items (if applicable), and maintain positive airplane control.
Coordinate with crew, if applicable, and complete the appropriate emergency procedures and checklist(s) for propeller feathering or powerplant shutdown.
Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to maintain best performance, and trim as required.
Determine the cause for the powerplant(s) failure and if a restart is a viable option. 53
Maintain the operating powerplant(s) within acceptable operating limits.
Maintain airspeed ±10 knots, altitude ±100 feet, headings ±10°, as specified by the evaluator and within the airplane’s capability.
Consider a powerplant restart and, if appropriate, demonstrate the powerplant restart procedures in accordance with the manufacturer or operator specified procedures and checklists.
Select the nearest suitable airport or landing area.
Communicate with air traffic control (ATC) and the evaluator, as appropriate for the situation.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.