Emergency Landing in a Twin-Engine Aircraft: What to Expect

When both engines on a twin-engine aircraft fail, it is a critical situation requiring immediate action. Pilots are trained to handle such emergencies, with the primary focus being on ensuring the safety of the passengers and crew.

Initial Response and Control

The moment both engines fail, the pilot's first priority is to maintain control of the aircraft. The plane will instantly lose thrust, leading to a noticeable decrease in speed. At this point, the pilot must signal to the crew and passengers that an emergency landing is imminent. If the aircraft altitude is managed properly, it can glide to a safe landing.

Engines and External Power Units

External power units (EPUs) provide essential power to the aircraft. These units supply power to critical instrumentation and radio communications, allowing the pilot to maintain contact with air traffic control and to guide the aircraft during the emergency landing. The distance an aircraft can glide is heavily dependent on the starting altitude, the aircraft's weight, and weather conditions.

Strategies for Engine Failure

Upon engine failure, the captain and co-pilot have a crucial decision to make: can the engines be restarted, or should the aircraft be prepared for an emergency landing?

Restarting Engines

In a B-52, if the copilot announces 'weve lost two engines!,' the captain has the option to attempt engine restarts while gliding towards the nearest airport or an alternative landing area. This is a complex and challenging procedure, but if successful, it can save both the aircraft and the lives on board.

Emergency Landing Without Engine Restart

If engine restarts are not possible, the aircraft is no longer controllable externally, and the focus shifts to ensuring the survival of the passengers and crew. The two scenarios to consider are:

If the aircraft is within gliding distance of an airport (preferably at a higher altitude), the pilot has a reasonable chance of reaching the airport for a safer landing. If the distance to the nearest airport is too great, an off-airport landing is necessary. The ideal landing spot should be flat, open, and as free from obstacles as possible.

Engines failing after takeoff are a particular concern, as the aircraft is still ascending and has gained significant altitude. In such scenarios, the priority is to reach a hihg enough altitude to ensure a safer gliding distance. Ideally, the nearest airport should be reached before engine failure becomes a critical issue.

Backup Systems and Glide Descent

Even with engine failure, many aircraft have backup generators that enable them to maintain electricity and hydraulic power for essential systems, such as flaps and landing gear. This means that the aircraft can lower its flaps and extend its landing gear to prepare for a controlled landing.

Conclusion

Engine failure in a twin-engine aircraft is an extremely serious situation that requires quick and decisive action. Pilots are trained to handle these emergencies effectively, with the primary goal being the safety of all on board. Whether engine restarts are successful or the aircraft must prepare for an off-airport landing, the focus remains on ensuring a safe outcome for everyone involved.