✈️ Introduction

One of the most terrifying emergencies in aviation is a dual-engine failure during takeoff. But how likely is it to happen, and can an aircraft survive such an event?

While this scenario is extremely rare, it’s not impossible. When it happens, the crew must act within seconds. In this article, we explore the technical causes, survival probability, and strategies to increase the chances of a safe outcome.

🔍 How Likely Is a Dual-Engine Failure on Takeoff?

Modern jet engines are highly reliable, with failure rates of less than 1 in a million flight hours. A complete loss of both engines during takeoff is rarer still. Historical data shows only a handful of cases—like US Airways Flight 1549 (“Miracle on the Hudson”).

Possible scenarios leading to both engines failing at takeoff:

  • Bird strike (especially large flocks during rotation or initial climb)
  • Fuel contamination
  • Incorrect fuel type (e.g., jet fuel mixed with diesel or avgas)
  • Multiple mechanical failures
  • Severe weather ingestion (volcanic ash, ice, hail)
  • Pilot error or misconfiguration
  • Sabotage or cyber-related interference (rare but considered in modern aviation security)

🛫 What Happens If Both Engines Fail During Takeoff?

If an aircraft loses both engines below V1 speed (decision speed), the takeoff should be aborted. However, if it’s after V1 but before VR (rotation) or in the initial climb, the aircraft must continue airborne.

Without engine thrust, the aircraft becomes a glider, and pilots must manage the descent and search for an emergency landing site—either a runway or open terrain.

📈 What Is the Survival Probability?

Survival depends on several key factors:

FactorImpact
Altitude when failure occursHigher altitude = more glide time & control
Airspeed & configurationClean config and best glide speed = longer range
Terrain belowOpen flat ground or water improves chances
Pilot training and reaction timeMost crucial—time to act is under 10 seconds
Weather conditionsWind, rain, or snow can worsen control and landing
Aircraft typeLarger aircraft often have better glide ratios

On average, survivability is higher if the aircraft reaches at least 3,000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level)—enough time to set up an emergency glide approach. At lower altitudes, survival depends largely on pilot skill and luck with terrain.

🔧 Technical Response: What Do Pilots Do?

Modern aircraft are equipped with systems and checklists for engine-out emergencies:

  1. Recognize engine failure (autopilot disengages; EICAS/ECAM alerts active)
  2. Maintain attitude and airspeed (typically best glide speed)
  3. Attempt engine relight (if altitude permits)
  4. Communicate with ATC (emergency declared)
  5. Select landing site (preferably within gliding range)
  6. Configure aircraft for best landing scenario (flaps, gear, etc.)

✈️ Example: The A320’s “green dot speed” provides the best lift-to-drag ratio in engine-out glide.

🧑‍✈️ Notable Real-World Cases

  • US Airways Flight 1549 – Airbus A320 lost both engines after bird strike just after takeoff from LaGuardia in 2009. Landed safely on the Hudson River. All 155 survived.
  • British Airways Flight 38 – Boeing 777 suffered dual engine rollback on approach to London Heathrow due to fuel icing. Crash-landed short of the runway. No fatalities.

🛡️ How Aircraft Are Designed for Safety

Aircraft are certified under ETOPS and FAA/JAR Part 25 standards, requiring:

  • Redundant systems
  • Fire detection and suppression
  • Power recovery via RAT (Ram Air Turbine)
  • Auxiliary Power Units (APUs)
  • Glide capabilities at zero thrust

✅ Tips for Passengers: How to Improve Survival Chances

  • Pay attention to safety briefings
  • Know the location of exits
  • Keep seatbelt fastened until cruising altitude
  • Stay calm and alert during takeoff and landing

🔚 Conclusion

While a double-engine failure during takeoff is one of the rarest and most dangerous situations in aviation, survival is possible—as proven by real-world cases.

The best defense is rigorous pilot training, aircraft redundancy, and quick decision-making. Modern aviation continues to evolve, reducing the probability and improving the survivability of even the most extreme emergencies.

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Categorized in:

Aircraft Engineering,

Last Update: June 16, 2025

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