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When selecting a field for a forced landing, which factor should the pilot consider?

Choices

✓ Length, surface, slope, and wind, ideally landing into the windcorrect
These factors determine whether the landing is survivable and controllable.
Only the color of the terrain
Color alone does not indicate suitability.
The field closest to the departure airport regardless of terrain
Proximity to departure is irrelevant if the field is unsuitable.
Whichever field requires the steepest approach
A stabilized, controlled approach is preferred over a steep one.

Why

A forced-landing field is chosen for length, surface, slope, and wind, ideally landing into the wind, with a planned pattern for a stabilized approach.

FAA source: Airplane Flying Handbook / best glide and field selectionbrowse the reference library →

This is taught in Engine Failure: After Takeoff and at Altitude — study the lessons free, then practice with grading and mastery tracking.

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Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question. Reviewed by a panel of three CFIs + AI review.