What should a pilot do if experiencing a total engine failure?

In the event of a total engine failure, performing a controlled descent and preparing for landing is crucial for ensuring the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. When faced with an engine failure, the primary goal is to maintain control of the aircraft and find a suitable area for an emergency landing.

This controlled descent allows the pilot to manage the aircraft's energy and altitude efficiently while assessing landing options, such as open fields, roads, or nearby airports. Maintaining a controlled descent also helps in managing airspeed and ensures that the pilot can execute the landing as safely as possible.

While attempting to restart the engine or following emergency procedures and communicating with air traffic control are important aspects of managing an emergency, they are secondary to maintaining control of the aircraft. Quick and decisive action to establish a controlled descent prioritizes safety, making it the most critical step in an engine failure scenario.