Engine Failure: After Takeoff and at Altitude

Engine failure is handled very differently depending on when it happens. Just after takeoff, altitude and options are minimal, so the rule is to lower the nose immediately to hold best glide airspeed and, in most light airplanes, land essentially straight ahead within a narrow arc. The tempting turn back to the runway at low altitude invites a stall/spin and is usually not feasible below an altitude your instructor and the manufacturer establish. At altitude the picture is calmer because time is on your side. The priority order is the same everywhere: fly the airplane first by establishing and holding best glide airspeed, which gives the greatest distance for the altitude you have. Only then do you pick a suitable field — judging length, surface, slope, and wind, ideally landing into the wind — and run the restart flow. Best glide is a specific published speed; flying faster or slower steepens the descent and shortens your reach. If altitude permits, the restart flow checks the likely culprits — fuel on the fullest tank, mixture rich, carburetor heat or alternate air on, fuel pump on, magnetos checked — always per the aircraft flight manual, aiming to restore power before you commit to a forced landing.