← All explained questions · Abnormal and Emergency Considerations

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 →

Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.

When selecting a field for a forced landing, which factor should the… · PPL Free Ground School