Taiwanese Air Force trainer crashes, killing two pilots during simulated engine failure drill

A T-34C trainer aircraft crashed at the Air Force Academy's Gangshan base in Taiwan on June 2, killing two pilots. The two pilots, Lieutenant Colonels Lu Ji-you and Kuo Chun-nan, died in the accident. The Air Force stated that the aircraft, number 3414, was performing a "simulated engine failure route training" when it crashed.

This type of training is a crucial part of flight instruction, focusing on emergency procedures for when an aircraft loses power in mid-air. The training simulates the aircraft losing thrust, requiring pilots to make rapid judgments and execute a series of actions. These include establishing a proper flight attitude, maintaining optimal glide speed and airtime, and assessing the surrounding environment for potential landing sites.

The key to this training is for pilots to maintain the aircraft within a safe airspeed range to prevent stalling. They must simultaneously observe wind direction, speed, and terrain conditions to determine if a return to the runway is possible or if an alternative emergency landing area should be chosen. If conditions permit, pilots are also required to follow procedures to check systems, attempt to troubleshoot and restart the engine, and report the emergency to air traffic control.

This training is often integrated with landing pattern operations. After entering the landing pattern, pilots must use their remaining altitude and glide energy to adjust their glide path and approach angle, ensuring a safe return to the runway. The T-34C trainer that crashed was near the north end of the runway. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Air Force.