Engine Failures in Planes: Rare or Common?

When thinking about plane safety, engine failures often come to mind. Are such incidents common or rare, and what role do different types of engines play?

Piston Engines: A World of Stress

When it comes to piston engines, failures are not uncommon. These engines feature numerous reciprocating parts, with conditions in the cylinders continuously changing from low pressure to extremely high pressure, along with temperature variations from ambient to high temperatures many times a minute. These conditions impose tremendous stress on the engine components, making such failures more frequent.

Turbine Engines: Pinnacles of Reliability

Turbine engines, such as those found in modern jets (jets or 'jets'): are designed to maintain a constant temperature and pressure, resulting in a much higher degree of reliability. With fewer parts and more even conditions, it is rare for these engines to fail during regular operations. As a testament to their durability, many retired pilots report flying for years without experiencing an engine failure.

A Personal Perspective: From Piston to Jet

A retired TWA captain shared his experience during his retirement party, recalling his time flying Convair Constellations and Super Constellations, both of which were four-engine piston aircraft. He noted that during his tenure, he experienced two round-trips over the Atlantic with all four engines running, and occasionally even landed with only two engines operational. In contrast, his subsequent flights in the B707 and later the 747, both equipped with four turbine engines, did not experience any engine shutdowns for a total of 15 years.

Modern Aircraft and Engine Reliability

In the realm of modern jet aircraft, engine failures are extremely rare. It is not unusual for pilots to go through their entire careers without experiencing such an incident. The reliability of turbine engines allows for a more developed and dependable air travel system, especially for long-distance flights. The ability to maintain stable conditions across the engine's lifespan contributes significantly to this reliability.

Propeller Aircraft: Not Necessarily Deadly

It's important to understand that propeller aircraft are not just 'old fashioned' but can be quite reliable when equipped with turbine engines. Known as 'turboprops', these aircraft can be highly efficient and environmentally friendly, particularly for short distances, where they often outperform turbine-powered jets in terms of fuel consumption and emissions.

Accidents and Maintenance

Rare as engine failures are, most accidents are not due to engine issues but rather pilot error or fuel mismanagement. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can significantly reduce the risk of failures, making modern aircraft engines as reliable as they are.

Conclusion

While engine failures can occur, especially in older piston aircraft, the modern turbine engines powering modern jets are incredibly reliable. This reliability is a testament to the engineering and maintenance that go into these powerful machines, ensuring that air travel remains one of the safest forms of transportation.