In article , Jeff wrote:

I have it in my head, If I lose power, I will continue straight ahead and hope
for the best spot. TUrning around seems more risky, depending on altitude and
where the engine quits at.


Dennis O'Connor wrote:

You absolutely, flatly, cannot turn back and you will die if you try...

You should experiement a little to see what your aircraft and technique allow you
to do. I've tried and find 500 feet entirely adequate in a 172. However, it depends
on the wind, the terrain, and what you're operating. For most aircraft there *is* an
altitude above which you can get back to the runway. If you're flying a single-engine
jet or a helicopter, I suspect this isn't true....

I have no idea why Dennis made his flat statement, but I suggest you find out what
you and your aircraft can do safely, then file it away in your bag of tricks. By all
means get an instructor to go with you if you have any concerns about safety.

Mike Beede