Which of the following is a basic rule for handling an airborne emergency?

Maintaining aircraft control is a fundamental rule for handling any airborne emergency. When faced with an unexpected situation, the pilot must prioritize the control of the aircraft above all else. This ensures that the pilot can manage the aircraft's flight path and reduce the risk of further complications arising from losing control.

By focusing on aircraft control, the pilot can execute necessary emergency procedures, communicate with air traffic control, and assess any immediate threats to safety. This stability allows for better decision-making in a high-stress environment, which is crucial for successful emergency management.

In contrast, the other approaches would not effectively support a safe outcome. Ignoring the situation would likely lead to worsening conditions, while relying solely on prayer does not provide practical action to address the emergency. Increasing airspeed could potentially exacerbate certain emergencies, depending on the circumstances involved, and should not take precedence over maintaining control.