What should a pilot do first when facing an in-flight emergency?

In an in-flight emergency, the priority is always to maintain control of the aircraft. When a pilot encounters unexpected situations such as engine failure, severe weather, or cabin depressurization, the first step is to ensure that the aircraft is flying stably. By flying the aircraft and stabilizing control, the pilot can effectively manage the emergency while assessing the situation further.

Stabilizing control involves maintaining the appropriate flight attitude, airspeed, and configuration, which allows the pilot to make informed decisions about how to proceed, whether it's returning to an airport, executing a controlled descent, or troubleshooting the issue. This foundational step is critical because if the aircraft is not under control, any other actions taken—such as communicating with passengers or checking emergency equipment—could be ineffective or even dangerous.

Following this initial priority, the pilot can then communicate effectively, assess the flight path, and check emergency equipment, all while ensuring safety and stability in the aircraft's operation. This structured approach helps preserve the safety of everyone on board while availing the pilot of the best chance to resolve the situation successfully.