An engine failure doesn’t have to turn into panic, if you have a plan! In Day 7 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge 2026, MzeroA’s Jamie shows how modern avionics can dramatically improve situational awareness during an emergency. By using a glide range overlay on your electronic flight bag (EFB), pilots can instantly visualize safe landing options and turn high-stress moments into calm, decisive action. When used correctly, this tool can be the difference between reacting blindly and executing a well-thought-out plan.
Using Glide Range Overlay to Improve Situational Awareness
The glide range overlay, often called a glide advisor, is a powerful feature available in many EFBs like ForeFlight. It provides real-time visual representation of where your aircraft can safely glide in the event of an engine failure. While pilots flying near sea level may see a near-perfect circle, terrain, winds, and altitude quickly shape that picture in mountainous areas. This tool enhances situational awareness by constantly updating your available options based on real-world conditions, helping you stay mentally ahead of the airplane.
Planning Safer Routes with Terrain and Emergency Options in Mind
One of the biggest advantages of a glide advisor is how it influences preemptive decision-making. Pilots can plan routes that maximize landing options, especially when flying over mountainous terrain or remote areas. By understanding where you can safely glide at any given moment, you can choose heading, altitudes, and routes that offer the best outcomes in an emergency. In the event of an engine failure, the glide range overlay helps quickly identify whether an airport, field, or safer landing area is within reach, turning uncertainty into a clear path.
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 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!