A forced landing is required when further flight becomes impossible.1 It is typically caused by factors outside the pilot's control, such as engine failure, fuel exhaustion, or extensive structural damage.2 For single-engine aircraft, an engine failure transforms the aircraft into a glider, making the forced landing procedure critical for survival.3 While often an emergency landing, a forced landing is not always an emergency; for example, an aircraft might be forced to land at a specific aerodrome due to military interception.2 In helicopter operations, a "safe forced landing" is defined as an unavoidable landing or ditching with a reasonable expectation of no injuries to persons in the aircraft or on the surface.4

A classic pitfall in the CPL theory exam is confusing a precautionary landing with a forced landing.1 The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3) dedicates a chapter to emergency procedures, including the sequence for a forced landing.3 The Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (FAA-S-ACS-6) requires pilots to demonstrate an emergency approach and landing from a simulated power loss.3