When it goes "quiet up front" being concerned about the aircraft - instead of those in it.
Interesting stats show the survivability of the ensuing landing/crash is related to the type of aircraft. From least survivable to most:
- Rare / Vintage / Warbird
- Homebuilt
- Privately Owned
- Club
Surprisingly it turns out the reason, behind these stats, is NOT due to:
- Aircraft type / performance / complexity
- Aircraft maintenance
- Pilot skill / experience
It turns out to relate to how much the pilot values the aircraft.
The most survivable accidents are when the pilot does his best to look after the occupants - if the aircraft is usable again, after the landing, it's a bonus.
The least survivable accidents are when the pilot tries too hard to make a perfect landing, in a perfect field - usually stretching the glide in the process.
Before someone says it I DO realise that the safest outcome is going to be a perfect landing in a perfect field - as long as one is available. If there is not one within safe angle/distance then the pilot who concentrates on "hitting the softest thing available as slowly as possible" is going to get the best outcome for the occupants.
OC619