Continuous engine ignition must be used during which condition?

Continuous engine ignition must be used during which condition?

• A. Takeoff and Landing on Contaminated Runway
• B. Cruise at FL350
• C. Descent on a smooth runway
• D. During taxiing on a dry runway

Answer: (A)

Continuous ignition is used when the engine is most at risk of flameout or surge due to sudden power changes and potential debris ingestion, which is most likely during takeoff and landing on a contaminated runway. On contaminated surfaces, slush, water, or debris can be drawn into the engine, and the rapid throttle changes during takeoff or the approach and flare for landing increase the chance that a flameout could occur. Keeping the igniters energized provides an immediate re-light path if a brief flameout happens, helping the engine stay lit through these critical phases. In contrast, cruising at altitude typically involves a stable, steady engine operation where the risk of flameout is low, so continuous ignition is not required. Descent on a smooth runway and taxiing on a dry runway involve much lower risk of ingestion or surge, so continuous ignition isn’t mandated in those conditions.

Continuous ignition is used when the engine is most at risk of flameout or surge due to sudden power changes and potential debris ingestion, which is most likely during takeoff and landing on a contaminated runway. On contaminated surfaces, slush, water, or debris can be drawn into the engine, and the rapid throttle changes during takeoff or the approach and flare for landing increase the chance that a flameout could occur. Keeping the igniters energized provides an immediate re-light path if a brief flameout happens, helping the engine stay lit through these critical phases.

In contrast, cruising at altitude typically involves a stable, steady engine operation where the risk of flameout is low, so continuous ignition is not required. Descent on a smooth runway and taxiing on a dry runway involve much lower risk of ingestion or surge, so continuous ignition isn’t mandated in those conditions.