Generator Failure  Instrument Failure  Pitot/Static System Failure  Loss of Situational Awareness (SA)  A-3  Factors reducing SA include distractions, unusual or unexpected events, complacency, high workload, unfamiliar  situations, and inoperative equipment. In some situations, a loss of SA may be beyond a pilot’s control. With an electrical  system failure and associated loss of an attitude indication, a pilot may find the aircraft in an unusual attitude. In this  SA is an overall assessment of environmental elements and how they affect flight. SA permits the pilot to make decisions  ahead of time and allows evaluation of several different options. Conversely, a pilot who is missing important information  about the flight is apt to make reactive decisions. Poor SA means that the pilot lacks vision regarding future events  that can force him or her to make decisions quickly often with limited options. During an IFR flight, pilots operate at  varying levels of SA. For example, a pilot may be en route to a destination with a high level of SA when ATC issues an  unexpected standard terminal arrival route (STAR). Because the STAR is unexpected and the pilot is unfamiliar with the  procedure, SA is reduced. However, after becoming familiar with the STAR and resuming normal navigation, the pilot  returns to a higher level of SA.  A pitot or static system failure can also cause erratic and unreliable instrument indications. When a static system  problem occurs, it affects the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and VSI. In the absence of an alternate static source in an  unpressurized aircraft, the pilot could break the glass on the VSI because it is not required for instrument flight. Breaking  the glass provides both the altimeter and airspeed indicator a source of static pressure, but pilots should be cautious  because breaking the glass can cause additional instrument errors. Before considering, pilots should be familiar with  their aircraft’s specific procedures for static problems.  One method of identification involves an immediate comparison of the attitude indicator with rate-of-turn indicator  and vertical speed indicator (VSI). Along with providing pitch-and-bank information, this technique compares the static  system with the pressure system and electrical system. Identify the failed components and use remaining functional  instruments to maintain aircraft control. Attempt to restore inoperative components by checking the appropriate power  source, changing to a backup or alternate system, and resetting the instrument if possible. Covering failed instruments  may enhance the ability to maintain aircraft control and navigate the aircraft. ATC should be notified of the problem  and, if necessary, declare an emergency before the situation deteriorates beyond the ability to recover.  System or instrument failure is usually identified by a warning indicator or an inconsistency between indications on  the attitude indicator, supporting performance instruments, and instruments at the other pilot station, if so equipped.  Aircraft control must be maintained while the pilot identifies the failed components and expedite cross-check including  all flight instruments. The problem may be individual instrument failure or a system failure affecting several instruments.  Once a generator failure is detected, the pilot must reduce electrical load on the battery and land as soon as practical.  Depending on electrical load and condition of the battery, sufficient power may be available for an hour or more of  flight or for only a matter of minutes. The pilot must be familiar with systems requiring electricity to run and which  continue to operate without power. In aircraft with multiple generators, care should be taken to reduce electrical load  to avoid overloading the operating generator(s). The pilot can attempt to troubleshoot generator failure by following  established procedures published in the appropriate aircraft operator’s manual. If the generator cannot be reset, inform  ATC of an impending electrical failure.  Depending on aircraft being flown, a generator failure is indicated in different ways. Some aircraft use an ammeter  that indicates the state of charge or discharge of the battery. A positive indication on the ammeter indicates a charge  condition; a negative indication reveals a discharge condition. Other aircraft use a load meter to indicate the load being  carried by the generator. If the generator fails, a zero load indication is shown on the load meter. Review the appropriate  aircraft operator’s manual for information on the type of systems installed in the aircraft. 