Re: twin vs. single

[StanK001@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/5/02 3:07:37 AM Eastern Standard Time, scrappyfltnurse@yahoo.com writes:

Looking for feed back from flight teams that are operating single engines and considering going to twins... What is the motivation?
Twins are safer in the respect that they have system redundancy. For the most part each engine independently can operate the aircraft systems. You have options in the event of a single engine failure that do not exist with a single. They tend to be larger and faster. You can fly IFR in them and they have a MEL (minimum equipment list) that allows you to operate the aircraft with certain known deficiencies which will allow you to stay in service in the event of a mechanical malfunction.

Also, programs operating twin engines and considering going to singles....What is the motivation?

The motivation is that they have a lower purchase price and lower operating costs.
Are Twin engines safer?

Yes, if you factor in all of the variables, twins are safer. This does not imply that singles are unsafe, just that there is a definite peace of mind from a pilots perspective. Turbine engine are extremely reliable so the chances of an engine failure is remote. The likelihood therefore is even more remote to have a dual engine failure. In order to choose a helicopter a program has to evaluate their operating profile (operating altitude, weather, operating distances, equipment weight) and their budget. It boils down to a big financial/operational compromise.

Just my opinion,
Stan Kocol
Toledo Life Flight
Safety Officer