01/09/2026
Rules are rules
Another reason why diverting to the nearest safe airport is good aeronautical decision-making:
The pilot of a Marine Corps F-18 transmitted an emergency call to approach control stating that he was 20 NM south of Naval Air Station North Island (KNZY) in San Diego with one engine inoperative, the remaining engine malfunctioning, and critically low on fuel. The controller responded, “I can give you a straight-in to Runway 36 at KNZY.”
The pilot replied, “Negative—I’m going to try to make it to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar,” his home field. Miramar was approximately twice the distance.
Unfortunately, the remaining engine flamed out on a two-mile final, and the aircraft crashed into a residential neighborhood, killing four people on the ground. The pilot ejected and was injured. Investigators later concluded that the pilot felt pressured by his supervisor to continue to the home field rather than divert to the nearest safe airport.
Takeaway: The FAA Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge emphasizes the use of Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM) during abnormal or emergency situations. With an engine problem, the expected first course of action is to divert to the nearest safe airport, not your home field or other facility. Additionally, the pilot in command (PIC) has final authority over the safe operation of the aircraft—no one else.
Fly safe, friends ✈️
