pointSixtyFive

FLAMEOUT PATTERN

Pilot/Controller Glossary with JO 7110.65BB, Change 3, effective July 9, 2026 · Official text on faa.gov

An approach normally conducted by a single‐engine military aircraft experiencing loss or anticipating loss of engine power or control. The standard overhead approach starts at a relatively high altitude over a runway (“high key”) followed by a continuous 180 degree turn to a high, wide position (“low key”) followed by a continuous 180 degree turn final. The standard straight‐in pattern starts at a point that results in a straight‐in approach with a high rate of descent to the runway. Flameout approaches terminate in the type approach requested by the pilot (normally fullstop).

In the 7110.65

Used in one paragraph of JO 7110.65BB.

  1. 10-1-7Inflight Emergencies Involving Military Fighter‐Type Aircraft