Which statement is true regarding the operation of a multiengine airplane with one engine inoperative?

• A. Banking away from the inoperative engine increases V(MC).
• B. Banking toward the inoperative engine increases V(MC).
• C. Banking has no effect on V(MC).
• D. Banking toward the inoperative engine decreases V(MC).

Answer: (B)

The correct statement is that banking toward the inoperative engine increases V(MC), which stands for minimum control speed with one engine inoperative. When a multiengine aircraft experiences an engine failure, the aircraft will naturally yaw toward the side of the failed engine. If the pilot banks toward the inoperative engine, they are using the remaining powered wing to counteract this tendency.

This action requires a higher airspeed to maintain controlled flight, as the aircraft’s performance becomes more marginal with one engine out. By banking toward the dead engine, the pilot must overcome the asymmetric thrust created by the operational engine. This increased demand for control results in an increase in the minimum control speed, necessitating that the aircraft be flown at a higher speed to maintain controllability.

Understanding this principle is crucial for safe operations in multiengine aircraft, especially during critical phases such as takeoff and climb when an engine failure is most likely to occur.