A rejected takeoff is one of the most critical decisions a pilot can make, and one that often happens fast, close to the ground, and with little margin for error. In Day 5 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge 2026, Jamie from MzeroA demonstrates a rejected takeoff in real time, showing why proper briefing, early recognition of abnormal indications and decisive action are essential to runway safety. Mastering the rejected takeoff procedure starts long before the throttle goes full forward.
Rejected Takeoff Briefing
One of the most common mistakes pilots make is skipping or rushing the rejected takeoff briefing. This briefing should happen before every single takeoff, regardless of aircraft type or runway length. A solid rejected takeoff briefing covers what “normal” looks like, what conditions would trigger an abort, and exactly what actions you’ll take if something doesn’t feel right. As emphasized in the FAA guidance, even a brief moment of indecision during an abnormal takeoff can be the difference between stopping safely and running out of runway. A clear plan makes the rejected takeoff procedure instinctive rather than reactive.
What the FAA and POH Say About Rejected Takeoffs
Both the FAA and the aircraft manufacturers stress the importance of early power and performance checks. The Airplane Flying Handbook highlights how runway conditions like wet pavement, rubber buildup, or reduced braking action, can dramatically affect stopping distance. Meanwhile, the Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) reinforces that any roughness, sluggish acceleration, or abnormal engine indication early in the takeoff roll is good cause to discontinue the takeoff. Applying full power smoothly, but promptly allows pilots to detect problems early, preserving valuable runway if a reject is necessary.
Real-Time Rejected Takeoff
In this demonstration, the rejected takeoff is executed exactly as briefed. Once an abnormal engine indication appears near rotation speed, the priority sequence is clear: maintain directional control, reduce power to idle, and apply smooth, effective braking without skidding. A well-briefed rejected takeoff procedure helps pilots overcorrecting, locking brakes, or losing control when runway length may already be limited.
Safer Pilot Challenge 2026
The Safer Pilot Challenge is our yearly vow to help you become a smarter, safer pilot, and it runs all month long every January, wrapping up with our big livestream finale on January 31! We’re giving away prizes throughout the month, so be sure to watch each YouTube video and leave the specific comment to enter for a chance to win. Are you committing to 31 for 31 days of the Safer Pilot Challenge? If you love our free content, just imagine what our full airplane pilot courses can do for you. We’d love to welcome you into our ground schools! Start today with a free 2-week trial and see if MzeroA is the right fit for your aviation journey!