Generator fault light (PH-VFL) — follow the Non-Normal Checklist

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Generator fail event during return to Teuge; PIC handled it professionally via the Non-Normal Checklist.

Background

During a rental on the PH-VFL, the Generator fail light illuminated on the way back to Teuge. This means the battery is no longer being charged by the engine — power is being drawn from the battery only. The PIC handled the situation professionally by following the Non-Normal Checklist.

Maintenance inspected the aircraft and discovered that a wire had burned through at the voltage regulator. Both the voltage regulator and the wires have been replaced, and the rest of the electrical system was checked. The aircraft is back in service.

Key points

  • Generator fail = power supply lost; battery is being depleted
  • The Non-Normal Checklist contains the correct response — use it
  • Reduce electrical load when this caution appears
  • Plan a landing at the nearest suitable airport
  • The PIC's calm, checklist-driven response was textbook — well done

    • Required actions

  • Know the location of the Non-Normal Checklist in the cockpit before each flight
  • In any non-normal situation: aviate, navigate, communicate — then checklist
  • Report electrical anomalies immediately after landing via SMS and the technical log

    • Further reading

    Non-Normal Checklist is available in the aircraft documentation.