In a confirmed engine failure at a higher altitude, what is the correct action?

In the event of a confirmed engine failure at a higher altitude, the appropriate action is to slow to 125 KIAS descent altitude to trade excess airspeed for glide distance. When an aircraft experiences an engine failure, managing airspeed is crucial for maximizing the aircraft's glide performance.

Reducing the speed to the appropriate target of 125 KIAS allows the pilot to find an optimal glide configuration that enhances lift-to-drag ratio, thus extending the gliding distance. This is especially important in emergencies to ensure the maximum distance can be covered, and to maintain control of the aircraft while minimizing the risk of stalling from excessive nose-up attitudes or uncontrolled maneuvers.

Maintaining this descent speed helps ensure that the aircraft remains in a safe flight profile during the critical phase following an engine failure, where the pilot must focus on managing pitch attitude, maintaining control authority, and preparing for potential landing sites.

Other options presented may not align with the optimal gliding strategy or could encourage risky maneuvers that do not maximize glide distance or maintain safety during descent after an engine failure.