One-Engine Inoperative (OEI) Performance

One-Engine Inoperative (OEI) performance refers to the aircraft's ability to maintain safe flight and maneuverability with one engine inoperative, requiring pilots to understand and utilize specific procedures and performance characteristics.

What it is

OEI performance focuses on the aircraft's ability to continue flight safely after an engine failure, considering factors like climb performance, obstacle clearance, and controllability.

Why it's important

Understanding OEI performance is crucial for pilots of multi-engine aircraft, as it directly impacts safety and the ability to complete a flight after an engine failure.

Key Considerations

• Climb Performance: OEI procedures require specific climb gradients and rates to ensure safe obstacle clearance and continued ascent.
• Controllability: With one engine inoperative, the aircraft experiences asymmetrical thrust, which can lead to yawing and rolling moments, requiring pilots to maintain control using appropriate inputs.
• VMC (Minimum Control Speed): VMC is the minimum airspeed at which directional control can be maintained with one engine inoperative, a critical factor during takeoff and early climb.
• Obstacle Clearance: OEI procedures must ensure the aircraft can clear obstacles along the flight path, even with one engine inoperative.
• Drift-Down Procedure: In certain situations, a drift-down procedure might be necessary, where the aircraft descends to a safe altitude while maintaining a planned OEI speed.

Examples

• Takeoff: During takeoff, pilots must plan for an engine failure scenario, ensuring the aircraft can clear obstacles and continue the climb with one engine inoperative.
• Climb: During climb, pilots need to maintain a sufficient climb rate to clear obstacles and reach a safe altitude.
• Landing: Landing with one engine inoperative requires careful planning and execution, including considerations for approach speed, runway length, and potential crosswinds.