What should be prioritized by a pilot when experiencing engine failure?

In the event of an engine failure, the pilot's primary focus should be on controlling the aircraft and identifying a suitable landing site. This priority is essential because maintaining control of the aircraft is crucial to ensure safety for both the pilot and any passengers onboard. An uncontrolled descent can lead to a much more dangerous situation, so the pilot must assess the situation and execute proper control measures.

Finding a landing site helps in planning for an emergency landing. This could involve gliding the aircraft to a field, road, or other area that can accommodate a safe landing. The ability to choose a landing site requires the pilot to quickly evaluate their altitude, airspeed, and nearby terrain.

While notifying passengers and attempting to restart the engine are important tasks, they come after ensuring the aircraft remains under control and safely navigating towards a landing site. Safety and survival during an engine failure must take precedence over other actions, making the correct prioritization critical in emergency situations.