On Wed, 2 May 2007 08:19:42 -0400, "Peter R."
wrote:


Isn't this guideline based on the theory that there is a higher chance of
engine failure during changes in power settings? A reduction of power while
entering the pattern, I recall reading, presents a statistically higher
chance of engine failure than while at cruise.

Of course you change your power at the beginning of a climb, top of
the climb, beginning of a descent, and the bottom of the descent. If
you are flying IFR you will do this a number of times and you may not
even be able to see the ground much less be looking for a good landing
spot. If you are flying an ILS approach you are certainly not within
gliding distance of a runway.

But take heart. As has been pointed out many times most accidents are
not the result of mechanical failure.