Airman Certification Standards
ACS AI.XII.F
Emergency OperationsFlight Instructor for Airplane Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-25) - Task F
Knowledge
Factors affecting minimum controllable speed (VMC).
VMC (red line), VYSE (blue line), and safe single-engine speed (VSSE).
Accelerate/stop and accelerate/go distances.
How to identify, verify, feather, and secure an inoperative engine.
Importance of drag reduction, including propeller feathering, gear and flap retraction, the manufacturer’s recommended control input and its relation to zero sideslip.
Simulated propeller feathering and the evaluator’s zero-thrust procedures and responsibilities.
Common errors related to this Task.
Risk Management
Potential engine failure after lift-off.
Collision hazards.
Configuring the airplane.
Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skill
Promptly recognize an engine failure, maintain control, and use appropriate emergency procedures. 85
Establish VYSE; if obstructions are present, establish best single-engine angle of climb speed (VXSE) or VMC +5 knots, whichever is greater, until obstructions are cleared. Then transition to VYSE.
Reduce drag by retracting landing gear and flaps in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance.
Simulate feathering the propeller on the inoperative engine (evaluator should then establish zero thrust on the inoperative engine).
Use flight controls in the proper combination as recommended by the manufacturer, or as required to maintain best performance, and trim as required.
Monitor the operating engine and aircraft systems and make adjustments as necessary.
Recognize the airplane’s performance capabilities. If a climb is not possible at VYSE, maintain VYSE and return to the departure airport for landing, or initiate an approach to the most suitable landing area available.
Simulate securing the inoperative engine.
Maintain heading ±10° and airspeed ±5 knots.
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
Analyze and correct common errors related to this Task.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.