How a Simple Rule Changed the Way Airplanes Are Built

TLDRThe 60-minute rule, which limited twin-engine planes from flying long-haul over-water routes, led to the development of trijets. The rule was based on the belief that if one engine failed, the other could only fly the plane safely for about an hour. However, with the increased reliability of jet engines, the rule became outdated, and the FAA introduced ETOPS certification. This allowed twin-engine planes to fly long over-water routes, leading to the decline of three and four-engine planes.

Key insights

✈️The 60-minute rule prevented twin-engine planes from flying long-haul over-water routes, limiting the potential of smaller planes.

🌊The ETOPS certification allowed twin-engine planes to fly long over-water routes, increasing efficiency and opening up new markets.

🔧ETOPS certification requires planes to have adequate redundancies and safety measures in case of engine failure.

🏝️The 60-minute rule impacted the development of Hawaii, as it limited direct flights to Honolulu and isolated the other islands.

🌍The reliability of today's airplanes allows for the safe operation of smaller planes over long ocean stretches.

Q&A

Why was the 60-minute rule in place?

—The 60-minute rule was put in place due to concerns about engine reliability in piston-driven propeller aircraft.

What is ETOPS certification?

—ETOPS stands for Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards. It certifies that a plane has the necessary redundancies and safety measures to fly long over-water routes.

How did the 60-minute rule impact Hawaii?

—The 60-minute rule limited direct flights to Honolulu, isolating the other islands and delaying the development of their tourism industry.

Are three and four-engine planes still in use?

—Three and four-engine planes are now largely a relic of the past, as twin-engine planes with ETOPS certification have become more reliable and efficient.

Can small planes fly over big oceans?

—Yes, with ETOPS certification and the advancements in airplane reliability, small twin-engine planes can safely fly over big oceans.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The 60-minute rule limited twin-engine planes from flying long-haul over-water routes.

02:38The FAA introduced ETOPS certification, allowing twin-engine planes to fly long over-water routes.

04:03ETOPS certification requires planes to have adequate redundancies and safety measures in case of engine failure.

05:52The 60-minute rule impacted the development of Hawaii, limiting direct flights to Honolulu and isolating the other islands.

06:59Advancements in airplane reliability now allow small twin-engine planes to safely fly over big oceans.

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