Operational Procedures: Normal, Abnormal and Emergency Handling
What the exam tests
This domain tests disciplined handling of normal, abnormal and emergency situations: checklist use, decision-making, emergency communications, diversion and command authority. Questions often test the first actions and the difference between abnormal and emergency.
Core rules
- Normal operations follow standard operating procedures and checklists. Before take-off, crews brief threats, emergency returns, rejected take-off and departure contingencies.
- Abnormal situations are handled with the appropriate checklist after maintaining aircraft control. Examples include system faults, abnormal gear indications and partial power loss.
- Emergencies require immediate action: aviate, navigate, communicate. Declare MAYDAY for distress and PAN PAN for urgency. Squawk 7700 for a general emergency, 7600 for radio failure and 7500 for unlawful interference.
- Engine failure after take-off: maintain control, establish the approved climb or glide speed, select a landing area, complete memory items, then the checklist. Do not turn back below a safe height unless the procedure or performance analysis supports it.
- Depressurisation: don oxygen masks, establish communication, initiate emergency descent as briefed and divert as required.
- Smoke or fire: follow the approved checklist, land as soon as practicable and consider immediate diversion.
Worked example
After take-off, the crew receives a cabin smoke warning. The first actions are to fly the aircraft, don masks if needed, establish crew communication and run the smoke checklist. The PIC decides to return to the departure airport, declares MAYDAY if the situation is a distress condition, and requests priority. The crew does not continue the planned route while the source is unresolved simply because the schedule is important.
Traps
Do not let checklist reading replace aircraft control. Do not confuse PAN PAN with MAYDAY. Do not assume a return is always the best option; use height, performance and terrain. Do not skip memory items before running the full checklist.