What action should be taken during an engine failure in the T-6?

During an engine failure in the T-6, it is essential to first check altitude and airspeed. This step is crucial because knowing your current altitude and airspeed helps in determining the options available for recovery and the appropriate course of action. The aircraft's performance is significantly influenced by these parameters; for instance, if you are at a low altitude and insufficient airspeed, your options may be limited to preparing for an immediate landing.

Understanding your altitude allows you to assess whether you have time to troubleshoot the situation or if you are in a position to execute a safe landing. Similarly, knowing your airspeed is vital for managing the aircraft's control and avoiding an aerodynamic stall. These factors guide the pilot in making informed decisions about either attempting a controlled glide or preparing for an emergency landing.

The other actions listed, such as attempting to restart the engine immediately or performing a landing right away, may not effectively consider the safety and control of the aircraft, particularly if time permits a more measured assessment. Maintaining straight and level flight while ignoring altitude and airspeed data would likewise be an ineffective response during an engine failure scenario. Hence, checking altitude and airspeed forms the basis for any prudent recovery strategy in response to engine failure.