What should pilots monitor closely to prevent engine flameout?

Monitoring fuel pump performance is crucial for preventing engine flameout because the fuel pump ensures a consistent and adequate supply of fuel to the engine. If the fuel pump malfunctions or begins to fail, it can lead to a drop in fuel flow, which may cause the engine to starve for fuel and potentially flame out.

Fuel flow is a critical component in maintaining engine combustion, and without sufficient fuel delivery, the engine cannot sustain its operation. Thus, by closely monitoring fuel pump performance, pilots can be alerted to any irregularities or failures that might jeopardize engine operation, allowing them to take corrective actions before flameout occurs.

In contrast, while oil pressure, altitude changes, and pneumatic system pressure are also important aspects of aircraft operation, they do not have as direct an impact on preventing engine flameout as fuel pump performance does. For example, oil pressure is more related to engine lubrication and health, and altitude changes could affect engine performance but are less directly tied to fuel delivery compared to the fuel pump's operational status.