Can an Ordinary Passenger Land a Plane? | Airline Pilot Explains 

"Attention all passengers, would you please disconnect from the in-flight wifi so I can rewatch this 74 Gear video which might get us all to the ground safely. Thank you very much and enjoy your flight. While you can."

“I just wanna tell you both good luck we’re all counting on you”

Things you must absolutely never forget in life: 1. Your childrens' names 2. Your wedding day 3. 121.5

“This is very very unlikely” So your saying there’s a chance. Got it. Downloading Flight Sim 2020 tonight.

Any fool can return a plane to the ground. Surviving the experience requires skill. And humanity has a 100% success rate when it comes to flying. In more than a century of aviation we have never left a man up there.

This guy is probably the most wholesome dude you want flying your plane. Very knowledgeable and extremely humble.

When he said, "you're on a plane like Cessna ... and the pilot has a heart attack," my mind when back to 6 grade reading the first chapters of the book "Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen. In the book, a 13 year-old boy is flying in a Cessna 406 alone with the pilot, and the pilot has a heart attack in flight.

I love what you've said about never giving up and being out of the fight. As a former skydiver, I had a particular experience that comes to mind when I think of not giving up. At this point in my skydiving career I had 4 reserve parachute rides so I was very confident in my ability to perform that emergency procedure. I don't remember what the original parachute malfunction on this 5th, and ultimately my last, reserve parachute experience was because of the dramatic ending. I had already released my main parachute and fell for a moment to clear my airspace from my main canopy, but no matter what I did, my reserve parachute handle would not budge. I pulled it, I peeled it, I popped it! This was a procedure for which I had trained extensively on the ground, including a hanging harness in which you can feel the real pressure it takes to get your reserve handle to release and get used to clearing the cable from the housings. But this isn't working!!! Something is not working like it normally does. At this point, I actually do a few forward somersaults, grabbing at the handle with both hands as hard as I can. I'm getting low. Way too low. And my neurons start firing so fast that time does indeed seem to slow down and my brain splits into two parts. One track is desperately trying to find solutions and innovate, while the other is embracing the reality of this situation with a sort of peace and saying goodbye to my loved ones. But I didn't give up at all on the first track. I ultimately started wrenching my body into this giant arch to get as much leverage as I could and I flung my feet and head forward in a violent de-arch while I pulled on that handle with all that I had. I did this 3 times and my reserve popped out at 900 feet. We later discovered that the reserve parachute pin had at least 20lbs more pressure on it than it should have. Never give up! Stay in the fight!

Kelsey: If your in a scenario with little or no training- Flight simmers: Hold my yoke.

I just lost my job and have been feeling pretty down - I appreciated the “you’re never out of the fight” bit

“Taking off is optional, landing is mandatory” -Aviation saying

I've played enough Ace Combat to be ready. When the pilots both become indisposed, it'll be my time to shine.

Finally, my 10,000 confirmed hours on Microsoft Flight SIM X can become handy

I like how I’m trying to memorize 121.5 even though the chances of me going on a small plane and actually having to land it is next to zero. 😂😂

“Ladies and gentlemen this is the passenger sitting in 6B, the good news is this plane is equipped with auto land, so if I could have someone come up here to make sure I don’t screw up the inputs I’ll be able to get us on the ground in no time”

This guy is funny. He always looks like he is a half-second from bursting into laughter.

They did this on a myth busters episode. They were able to land in a simulator while being guided by an instructor. Crashed both times they had to do it on their own.

Just make sure that both pilots don't eat the fish - Ted Stryker

This has actually happened here in the UK a good few years ago. Two friends out for a jolly in a small single engine plane only one pilot who unfortunately had a heart attack. The other poor chap had the unenviable task of landing the plane with zero experience whilst the evening was closing in, no instrument lights were on either. He got on the radio and declared an emergency and the raf sent up a Chinnock to help talk him down. He made it down safely on to the runway after a few failed attempts in the dark with no instruments lights.

In 1997 I was 7. My dad bought microsoft flight sim. He spent about a week trying to land and kept crashing. I asked if I could try and he said " this game is to hard for you bud". I then tryed anyway and landed the plane on my first try. Been in love with flying ever since

Seeing you fit and well puts me at ease. Stay safe out there!

My plan: set the radio to 121.5 and ask to speak with Kelsey.....

There is audio of a man in the UK who had no flight experience in a Cessna when his friend, the pilot, suffered a fatal heart attack. He flew and landed the plane AT NIGHT with the guidance of a flight instructor. Poor guy didn’t even have any dash lights to see what he was pushing. Pretty phenomenal story…AND his British politeness never wavered, I might add 🙂

The beginning was great 😂 love the content “comin up”

"There's no way he can land that plane! Route 'em into Lake Michigan. At least they'll avoid killing innocent people!" Capt. Rex Kramer 😂

me: can't wait to try it. my mom: no more youtube.

I have to say that your channel has been the most enriching one I have watched. Thank you so much.

I want to say I watched a video of your from two years ago and you’ve come a long way. Your camera work is great. Your speaking has come miles. I really enjoy your videos. You ha e a great personality and I look forward to seeing a notification of a new video. Keep up the great work! My dad is a pilot in a Mooney and I’m always paying attention in case I have to land some day which I think I could complete safely.

A landing you can walk away from is a good one , a landing you can use the plane again is a great one

Less likely than winning the lottery? SO YOUR TELLING ME THERES A CHANCE?!

I used to travel a lot for my work, my biggest fantasy was that the stewardess would come over the intercom and say “ are there any pilots aboard?” I would say, “I’m not a pilot but I have hundreds of hours on MS Flight sim” and be the hero who landed the plane and saved all the passengers.

“We’ll be expecting some slight turbulence.” Me after watching: step aside, peasants, I’ll bring us in.

Kelsey is ya best and btw I think a Passenger can land a plane if he watches your vid lol🤣

40 something years ago , in my early 20's, I wanted to learn to fly. My instructor was a WW2 Hump pilot. Amazing. But...when it became time to solo...I couldn't do it. No confidence to fly on my on even with my instructor telling me i was ready. I finally just stopped. I knew I would never be able to solo. Great fun flying with the instructor though. Never regretted trying! I enjoy your videos very much!

Outstanding video, subscribed! 👍

Your videos are fascinating!! Thank you!!

Absolutely yes! Any ordinary person can land any plane, the real challenge would be for any of them to land it correctly and in one piece.

Add into the equation that it's gonna be hard to get into the cockpit since I think it is now locked AND reinforced. I suppose that we could use the taller first-class passengers as battering rams, and that would be messy and take some time, but where there's a will, there's likely a heap of bodies too.

I just found your channel and I like your style, sir! I have subscribed.

I’ve never seen your channel before. I think it’s really cool that you, a professional pilot, does this. 👍

Blinks during video: 0 This man is dedicated to his passion 100%

Even this explanation gave me sweaty palms. It sounds very easy but when you're panicking like hell it can seem impossible to land an airliner

I don't write many comments but I had to tell you I like these type of videos! You're intelligent and have a chill vibe. This is the first video I've seen of yours and I was a little sad when it ended. Would love to see more in depth videos on how to survive aviation scenarios that would be very likely to be in.

Oh yeah baby, I’m ready. Been watching 74 Gear, The Flight Channel, & Mayday Air Disaster. Bring it on! Hahahaha!

For some reason, I love the way you say, “comin’ up”. It’s Pavlovian to me.

This video reminded me of "The Simpson's ' episode where Homer mistakenly tells people about the 'Navitron Auto-Drive' system installed in the big rig truck he's driving. Other truckers get very upset with Homer given the system has been kept a secret for many years by the truckers as they don't wish to alert the travelling public how easy it was to drive a truck. I'd be watching your back now given what you've just disclosed. ;-)

This is information I really needed. Thank you.

Thanks so much for sharing with us all your expertise, great help

I'd imagine the hardest part would be getting communications going in the first place. What are the chances that a novice would be able to put the headset on and know which button to press to communicate with the tower? That's assuming it's already tuned into the right frequency.

6:35 I remember reading that the lead investigator for the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion concluded that the crew cabin was likely intact and having known the pilot personally, that he flew that wreck all the way down You don't gotta win, but you do gotta fight

Thanks for your service. Awesome video.

Super helpful advice. I don't know if I'll ever need it BUT I'm super happy to know just in case.

I have watched so many aircraft videos, I think I could fly it. The level of automation is unreal.

"There is nothing to worry about, we will be landing in just a few moments. Howether there is one small problem: Does anybody here know how to land a four engine jet?" Scene from the TV Series "Get Smart"

Very intressting, and who knows might be helpful someday 😅. Subscribed :)

I really enjoyed the video, very informative. And thanks for the heads up on that radio frequency 121.5. 😎

"I might bend your precious airplane, but I'll get it down."

Could you do a review of the TV movie, Flight 174 (also known as Freefall: Flight 174)? I j

Love your channel. I just found it a couple of days ago!

Pilot Kelsey: thank you for your awesome videos. As a pianist, I couldn't have a profession further from pilot but your videos are so interesting! I love learning about new things all the time. Keep up the great vids. PS; thank you for pronouncing the Japanese cities correctly👏🏼👏🏼😃

"Airliners are easier than cessnas" Me: "thank you!" I've always been like "is it just me, or are airliners easier than cessnas?" "That wouldn't make any sense at all."

"You're hero! How did you manage that landing?" Me: "I uh... I pushed da button dat said AUTO LAND!"

That Deadpool clip just did it for me. I'm absolutely convinced you're a full time stand up comedian and part time pilot

Imagine how many lives just this video could possibly save. I don't know how I ended up on this channel, but can't stop watching lol.

When u saying: Coming up. Im starting smiling and having filling like something exiting coming up:)

65 likes and not a single dislike, bro you have the best community

My first time watching this channel. 747 are my favorite planes to take photos. November and December are the months they fly every day over my house (cargo planes). Last week I finally took a picture to Cargolux, nice logo and super nice picture for my laptop

The largest jet I was ever on was a Delta L10-11. I had never seen or been on one that large. I didn't know how it was going to get off the ground, but it did! It would certainly be an honor to get to fly on a 747. (Always been my dream) I doubt it will ever happen. **** panic disorder since age 12 ....I flew to Phoenix by myself at age 16. It sounds odd, but I'd rather fly than be in a car any day!**** Thank you for all these wonderful videos!

The first flight I was on was a flight from NYC to London. It was a 747 and I knew it was very safe but it was a bit scary flying through clouds and not seeing the airport until just before landing.

for your next Hollywood vs reality, you should do Snakes on a plane... somebody with only sim experience lands a big plane... that would be fun to watch!

I monitor the Guard 122.5 frequency at home. I live about 40 miles south of BNA in Nashville and sometimes monitor their frequencies. It's fun to listen to. I can track any particular flight on an app and also listen to their departure or approach over the air. I have a nice base scanner with an outdoor 8 element antena on a 32' mast. I love radios.

love your videos - you are a great pilot

Greetings from coronavirus hit ENGLAND.. love this channel, stay safe america

The trifecta of youtube- Legal Eagle, Doctor Mike, and 74 Gear. A lawyer, A doctor, and a Pilot. All needed if you were to steal a plane.

Kelsey, I love your videos. For 2 days now. Newbie. I love your info. We are all a team on a flight? Cool!

Hello… I really appreciate your channel and watch all the time. The view from your hotel looks a lot like Bellevue 😉

"Downtown Seattle" shows Bellevue. Enjoy your videos!

I've watched a couple documentaries and listened to some ATC recordings of when a passenger had to land the plane with little to no experience and it can and has been done. It's pretty remarkable but it's possible. There's one that's pretty famous and has videos and documentaries about it and it was an older gentleman in England (I think) who was with his friend in a small plane and his friend who was flying had a heart attack or something and became unresponsive and the guy had to contact ATC and get an instructor to help him out and he managed to do it. His biggest problem was that by the time they got someone on the other side who knew the plane well enough it was already pretty dark out and the console instrument lights weren't on and the switch for them was right next to the engine power switch so the didn't risk trying to get those lights on so he had to do it partially blind. The other story I remember seeing was a teenage girl who was flying with an instructor when the instructor had a heart attack or something like the situation I mentioned before and she was really upset and scared but she did at least have some flight time although they did get another instructor to talk to her to try to calm her down and reassure her and she was able to land it safely. If anyone is interested I'd definitely recommend checking out the documentary about the first story as it's here on youtube and it's really heartwarming and inspiring.

In 1976 I was on a BA Trident which landed at Heathrow. After the landing the pilot announced that it had been the first ever fully automatic landing of a plane carrying passengers.

Happened my neck of the woods in Perth, WA, Australia a year ago at Jandakot Airfield (light aircraft) when student pilot Max Sylvester's instructor passed out, his third lesson and never landed a plane......yet. Pulled it off for text book landing, instructor recovered in hospital ok. Occasionally me and little daughter go there to view all the touch n goes, wobbly first time landings etc. Only recently come across 74 Gear, like it a lot.

Surely you must be joking? I'm not. And dont call me Shirley.

Well, if I'm ever in this situation I know what I'm gonna be watching on the flight WiFi...

So Glad i found this channel

I worked at Boeing Flight Test for most of my career. When the 777 was developed, we (Flight Test) got the fist few planes to do the flight testing. I was so automated they said it could be flown by one pilot and a Doberman pinscher. The pilot's job was to feed the dog, the dogs job was to bite the pilot if he tries to touch anything.

ANOTHER AMAZING VIDEO Maannnnn 😉

it hapened on a Helios flight where no one was concious except one man he tried to get the plane on the ground but the fuel ran out.. the only option was to crash land the plane sadly no one survived :/ but at least He tried he never gave up on the situation

“Keep the blue side up” I love that! Please tell me that’s yours!!!!

Great video as usual, sir.

It occurs to me that, if you are flying over the ocean on a cloudy day, "keep the blue side up" is telling us to fly the plane upside down. Cool.

Would love to hear you talk about airline disasters in history and how they could have been avoided.

I finally remembered the frequency before you named it! Yay! Success!

I love your videos so much I sit playing airplane games on roblox while watching you lmao

121 decimal 5. I'll remember this frequency.

when u land a plane as a passenger then u nail the landing smoothly, u open the doors as hard and be like BUTTER!

Knowing how much you like free food, next time you’re in SEA I’ll buy you any meal of your liking delivered to your hotel (not by me of course) or ready for pick-up wherever you want! It’s the least I can do after benefiting so much from your videos and actually informative content! Before your videos I used to be terrified of flying and I know better only because of you! So thank you for making traveling so much more tolerable!

Fascinating! At the outset it does seem counterintuitive that a very large aircraft is ultimately easier to land but I totally understand given what you were saying about the greater the payload the more the automation. I have a somewhat related question because you mentioned the movie Flight which I also found to be very thought-provoking especially the way it dealt with the institutional dysfunction of these low-budget regional carriers, their cutting corners on maintenance, and the NTSB. (Interesting that you said that some of the details of the script of the film were based on that Alaskan airlines crash in 2000). Anyway I was one time on board a Colgan airlines de Havilland turbo prop plane which I learned in retrospect was one of the planes with the highest number of accidents and the poorest safety record. In fact Colgan airlines went out of business several months after this incident. We were trying to land in the Jackson MS airport (Nov. 2011) departed Houston and got caught in a huge powerful thunderstorm and that was probably in retrospect the closest I've ever come to going down. The pilot seemed to have a lot of difficulty just keeping the plane from violently yawing rolling and dipping. Passengers were getting hysterical and vomiting during the severe turbulence and the lightning. Anyway it seemed like we were stuck in this holding pattern around the airport (JAN) for well over an hour which I thought was excessive. He kept trying to drop the landing gear (I recall because I had a window seat right behind the wing of the aircraft and I kept seeing the wheel go down amidst all the clouds and filled the plane suddenly drop and then about 20 minutes later he banked up again and it retracted, this went on repeatedly!) and I was wondering why the flight path wasn't diverted for that long? The guy sitting next to me was a pilot and he was wondering aloud the same thing. Eventually we got an emergency landing in Baton Rouge but that was like close to 11:00pm and our scheduled landing in the Jackson airport was 8:40 p.m. I wrote a letter to the vice president of safety of Colgan airlines and Cc'ed to copy to the FAA asking them for more details regarding my question. Never got a straight answer except they did send me a travel voucher. Three months later they went out of business. My question though is is it normal for a pilot to be stuck in such a holding pattern for that long or was this the airline company trying to discourage the deviation like what happened with that Alaskan Airlines flight back in 2000, when they requested an emergency landing at LAX? Perhaps it's impossible to answer but we obviously were in an extremely dangerous situation. Thoughts?

“If you came prepared and brought your parachute, I would definitely put it on and jump out” OMFG IM DEAD! I laughed too hard I’m OFFICIALLY DEAD.

I think I saw a pretty comprehensive video about landing a plane on Mentour's channel a while ago. But wouldn't the biggest problem on a modern plane be how to get onto the flight deck if everyone in there had the fish?

I cant even aford traveling. Heck cant even drive a car. I just find the video's calming and entertaining for som reason. So good luck getting me in that cockpit by magic haha :P

You guys, you're the real heroes!!