REDUNDANCY IN THE COCKPIT Electrical failures in airplanes with all-glass avionics aren't any more or less common than airplanes with analog instruments. You'll need backup navigation tools, such as charts or a tablet or smartphone loaded with flight planning software. A handheld radio is an inexpensive and lightweight addition to your flight bag that you can use to contact a control tower in the event of a radio malfunction. Ensure the handheld has charged batteries. Its range will vary, but you can expect 5 to 10 miles. An external radio antenna is the key to extending the range of a handheld radio. Some manufacturers claim readability up to 25 miles. And sometimes cell phones can be used to call ATC in flight. Otherwise, follow standard light gun signals to land at a towered airport. Conserve energy by turning off all nonessential equipment. These may include the radio, transponder, and lights. If there's time, advise ATC that you have had an electrical failure and that you expect to lose radio communications. Does your airplane have electrical flaps? Not anymore. Plan and execute a no-flaps landing. FLIGHT TRAINING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 35