Expert: Paul Soderman - 2/15/2005

Question
Hi,
I am a student studying for a diploma in Singapore. I have heard that a civil airplane can jettison it's engine during flight at emergency. I have doubts in that if this is done, the C.G. of the plane will change drastically. So, is it really possible for a civil aircraft to jettision its engine during flight at emergency condition? If it is possible, does it applies to all civil airplane? If yes, can you list some examples of those airplanes that can jettision the engine in flight?
Thanks alot!

Answer
Hi Ngoh

I know of no aircraft that can jettison it's engines in flight.  The complications of safely unhooking the fuel lines, electrical lines, and mechanical connections would be unacceptable. And the CG change that you mention could be critical.  And what happens to the people on the ground if a big engine fell on them ?  And what happens if the pilot accidently hit the jettison engine button by accident ?  And what emergency would require this (fire suppression is already available) ?

The whole thing sounds improbable to me.

Paul