FMS handling a total engine failure

[sheepless]

I teach ab-inito ATC.

Following a complete engine failure, at altitude, would the FMS manage the descent profile to a suitable runway? How much assistance would you want from ATC radar?

Thanks

[Turbavykas]

Have never heard of. Current FMS are primitive. Cannot calculate even with gear down. Probably case you will be out of fuel. Without engines generators don't work so only the basic instruments. How will fms predict downdrafts? The best ATC can help I suppose is try to calculate glide range and probably provide headings.

[BARKINGMAD]

Forget it.

Some jets will lose all but basic AC supplies and anyway the pilots should revert to being pilots and FLY their craft to the best landing they can make in the circumstances.

The F/O in the Kegworth OEI accident was allegedly busy reprogramming the FMS for their chosen destination, an activity which distracted one or both of them from the DIAGNOSIS.

Render as much assistance as is requested and within your ability, otherwise start the prayer beads rattling?

[sheepless]

Many thanks.

[Tu.114]

Why would anyone start to fiddle with the FMS in such a situation? The PF will need to keep the aircraft in a glide towards the most suitable place for a landing and the PNFs attention would be best directed to possibly restoring some engine power and reading the appropriate abnormal lists. Also the cabin needs to be prepared, a mayday call to ATC would be in order as well. The exact course of action will of course depend on position and altitude, weather conditions and many other factors, but FMS programming would be at the very end of the priority list.

ATC might offer advisory directions towards a field with CAVOK conditions, but apart from this, what I would want them to do if I was in such a situation would be to keep track of the aircraft with the aim of getting rescue teams there as quickly as possible.

[Denti]

Actually, check out the xavion system for GA airplanes, it is pretty sophisticated. However, loss of all engines is exceedingly rare so it doesn't seem to be a much needed system unlike on single engine airplanes where it is pretty handy to have some immediate help for the PF.

[titaniumwings]

I guess this may depend on the type of aircraft n its fmc. You may need to cater for basic denominator and assume that fmc provides no such help with profile. Different pilots may have different skills and abilities so a maybe take the cue from them and try to help accordingly.

Worst may be those who are a bit lost and blind. Another may ask for radar vector to the nearest airport. As a general guide, a profile double the 'standard' may be used as a start, eg 10nm 6000' and work from there.

Thanks for caring and taking care of the planes.