The Choice between One Engine or Two: An appreciation of the factors involved in choosing a single or twin‐engine layout for military tactical aircraft

Abstract

THE current discussions to define a multi‐role aircraft for the mid 1970s have been notable for dissension of opinion on the choice between one engine or two. This remarkably basic choice has been with us since pioneer days — Lindbergh's acid comment on the value of two engines was ‘twice the trouble’, while the very fact that there are many aircraft in use of both layouts indicates that there has not been a clear case for choosing cither. Not, that is, until very recently, when statistics on the loss rate of both single and twin‐engined aircraft have confirmed that a definite margin does exist. This is the key to the whole choice between two engines or one, for it is necessary to compare not only the initial costs, but also the maintenance and operating costs, replacement of lost aircraft, and pilot training costs to achieve a realistic comparison on an overall cost basis. As with most cost‐effective arguments a strong danger exists of losing sight of primary objectives in a welter of tenuously related facts. The objectives in the choice between two engines and one is simple; which configuration fulfills an operational requirement at the least overall cost.

Citation

Higgins, R.W. (1968), "The Choice between One Engine or Two: An appreciation of the factors involved in choosing a single or twin‐engine layout for military tactical aircraft", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 40 No. 11, pp. 19-21. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb034439