MileHi480B Posted August 1, 2010 Report Share Posted August 1, 2010 Is my theory flawed? STATEMENT: Reciprocating "engine-outs" can be avoided easier in a helicopter than in a fixed-wing. THEORY: When we monitor instrument trends in a fixed wing and notice a problem (i.e. high temps, low pressure, chips, other warning lights, etc) we try to make it to an airport because "off airport" landings need more ideal conditions than a helicopter. But when we notice troubling trends in a helicopter we can land almost anywhere to check it out. Of course, this does not include sudden catastrophic failures -- but even most of those failures are preceded with warning signs. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Eric Hunt Posted August 1, 2010 Report Share Posted August 1, 2010 Maybe so, but if a plane's engine coughs, the flywheel energy of the propellor will kick it over again and it might keep running. In a chopper, one cough and it's off. No flywheel energy, the rotor cannot push the engine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gomer Pylot Posted August 1, 2010 Report Share Posted August 1, 2010 The theory is fine, in theory, and considering the long-term average. In reality, every malfunction is different, and it's just not possible to accurately predict what will happen. Don't underestimate the desire of helicopter pilots to get back to the base without making a precautionary landing either. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Witch Posted August 2, 2010 Report Share Posted August 2, 2010 I ain't so sure. There can be ideal landing locations, and there can be crappy landing locations. It all depends where you are, what your options are, terrain, weather... Thus, the ideal landing location can become crappy, and the crappy location can become ideal. Fact is, you gotta work with what you got to the best of your ability. When the engine quits, just remember the procedures and do your best. Later Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.