Decompression and engine failure escape routes for mountainous areas
For operation of aircraft over mountainous areas such as the Alps, flight crews must always consider dangerous situations like decompression or an engine failure – situations that call for a viable escape route.
Such escape scenarios need to be planned very precisely and carefully specifically for each route in order to definitely avoid CFIT (Controlled Flight Into Terrain) events.
There are two cases in particular where the need for a swift yet controlled descent of the aircraft and the need to avoid a CFIT have to be reconciled.
Decompression: we help you catch your breath
For a decompression scenario, oxygen supply for crew and passengers is limited depending on the installed oxygen system. Most aircraft are equipped with either a 12- or 22-minute chemical oxygen supply system. This is the time-frame in which the aircraft has to descend to an altitude low enough to allow all aboard to breathe the ambient air rather than the emergency oxygen. Only then can possible
contingency measures be carried out successfully.
En-route engine failure: drift to where it’s really safe
When an engine fails, a drift down to a lower altitude is required, as the remaining engine(s) will not be able to maintain a high-altitude cruising level. It is vitally important that the necessary drift-down altitude is never lower than surrounding terrain.
Here again, safe procedures need to be developed, and even certain limitations might be required (e.g. limiting aircraft en-route mass) to ensure safe operation on the respective routes.
Escape Scenarios: we help you get out of a tight spot
TRS Aviation Consulting has thorough experience in the creation of decompression and engine failure escape routes, as required for operations over high terrain.
Written procedures as well as charts can be created for all mountainous areas. These escape routes/procedures can be tailored according to customer specific scenarios as well as for various aircraft types.
Procedures include detailed crew guidance on the vertical and lateral flight profile to always ensure a safe flight and to support the diversion to an alternative en-route airport where a safe landing will then be possible.
