Here's a scenario:
Fuel gauges showing a modest amount of fuel in tanks, but just from sphincter sensations you knew you couldn't have a great deal on board. Then two red fuel low level lights unexpectedly illuminate. Next thing that happens is that, inexplicably one engine runs down. What would you suspect may be the cause?
In that scenario, would you be running through flip cards or working through the overhead panel? Indeed is there a memory drill for a simple engine run down?
Anyone ever heard of (T)DODAR? Where 'T' stands for time?
Experienced pilots can frequently 'skip' steps that a robot, or inexperienced pilot would be obliged to perform. SOMETIMES being human is a good thing. SOMETIMES being human is not!
Personally, I'd be sh1tt1ng myself, looking for an IMMEDIATE (and I MEAN immediate) landing. I would also be mentally preparing myself to dump the lever at the slightest cough from the running engine.
Finally, where do the witness statements of 'fireworks' or 'sparks' fit into this scenario?
I have no real answers. Just throwing it out there for debate, that's all.
Last edited by Tandemrotor; 17th Jan 2014 at 21:05.