When the right engine fails, what happens to the balance ball if a left rudder input is applied?

• A. Slightly Left
• B. Center
• C. Slightly Right
• D. Far Left

Answer: (A)

When one engine fails, a yaw moment toward the failed side appears, so you apply rudder to balance the yaw. With the right engine out, a left rudder input counteracts the rightward yaw, but until you establish the proper bank to produce a coordinated turn, the airplane will tend to slip slightly to the left. That lateral acceleration shows up as the balance ball deflecting slightly to the left. In other words, you’re creating a small left slip while you counter the engine-out yaw, and the ball reflects that by moving toward the left. If you continue to coordinate with appropriate bank and rudder, the ball would center as you achieve a coordinated turn.