What Happens When Both Engines Fail on a Two-Engine Plane: Survival Techniques and Historical Insights

Introduction

In the event of a critical emergency such as both engines failing on a two-engine plane, the situation can be dire yet is not necessarily a guarantee of a crash. With proper procedures and training, pilots can often navigate to a safe landing. This article will explore the key aspects of handling this severe emergency, from the inherent design of the aircraft to the crucial role of pilot training and emergency procedures.

Gliding Capability

Modern aircraft are designed with the capability to glide in the event of engine failure. This gliding ability is critical and is passed through a specific glide ratio that allows the plane to travel a precise distance horizontally for each unit of altitude lost. For two-engine planes, this distance can be significant. For example, commercial aircraft can glide for around 60 miles without any engine power, transforming into a poor-performing glider with limited landing options depending on altitude.

Pilot Training

Pilots are extensively trained for scenarios where engine failure occurs, including the rare and more severe condition of losing both engines. This training includes familiarizing themselves with the possible outcomes and how to manage these conditions. Key skills are maintained to ensure the aircraft stays under control, speed is managed, and emergency procedures are followed.

Emergency Procedures

In situations where both engines have failed, pilots would immediately follow established emergency protocols. These may include attempting to restart the engines, which, if successful, would quickly resolve the issue. If the restart attempts are unsuccessful, the pilots would declare an emergency and seek immediate diversion to the nearest suitable airport using their gliding capabilities.

Historical Context

Despite these modern advancements, dual-engine failures remain a rare occurrence, but historical instances highlight the importance of these preparedness measures. Two notable cases, the Miracle on the Hudson, where US Airways Flight 1549 successfully glided to a water landing after both engines ingested Canada geese, and the Gimli Glider incident, where Air Canada Flight 143 managed to glide back to Winnipeg using its turbofan engines, remain landmarks demonstrating the effectiveness of pilot skills and the design of the aircraft. These incidents underscore the critical need for both training and aircraft design in emergency situations.

Conclusion

While the failure of both engines in a two-engine plane constitutes a serious emergency, the combination of skilled pilots and the aircraft's innate design often enables a controlled descent and landing. Extensive training and emergency protocols are crucial in navigating this intense situation to ensure the safety of all aboard.

Key Takeaways:

Pilot training and preparedness for engine failures. Aircraft design with inherent gliding capabilities. Emergency procedures and protocol for both engine failure. Historical insights from notable survival incidents.