What should pilots do if they encounter an emergency situation according to FOM guidelines?

Pilots encountering an emergency situation should refer to emergency checklists and follow established procedures as outlined in the Flight Operations Manual (FOM). This approach is essential because it ensures that actions taken are based on standardized protocols designed to handle specific scenarios effectively and safely. Emergency checklists provide systematic steps that have been rigorously developed through extensive training and simulation, taking into account various factors that could affect flight safety.

Utilizing these checklists helps pilots prioritize their actions, reduces the likelihood of errors, and allows them to focus on critical tasks needed to manage the situation. The structured nature of checklists also aids in maintaining clear communication and coordination among crew members, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of the response to the emergency.

In contrast, relying solely on intuition without guidance may result in haphazard decision-making that could escalate the situation. Consulting a ground team might delay the response or complicate decision-making in critical moments, while immediately informing passengers without a clear action plan could cause unnecessary panic without effectively managing the emergency. Therefore, following the emergency checklists aligns with best practices for safety and operational effectiveness in aviation.