Understanding ETOPS / EDTO & tailored Charts

In this article, I outline what ETOPS / EDTO is, why it matters, and how to enhance flight operations with the creation of tailored ETOPS charts, automatically created for pilots and flight planning.

What is ETOPS/EDTO?

ETOPS, or Extended Twin Operations, refers to the regulations and standards governing the operation of twin-engine aircraft on routes that take them beyond a specified flying distance from the nearest suitable airport.

The term ETOPS originally stood for "Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards," but as it now applies to aircraft with more than two engines, the broader term EDTO (Extended Diversion Time Operations) is often used.

These regulations ensure that aircraft can safely reach an alternate airport in the rare event of an engine failure or other critical system malfunctions. 

Key ETOPS thresholds include 60, 120, 180 minutes, or more, depending on an aircraft’s certification. For example:

• A 180-minute ETOPS certification allows the aircraft to fly routes that are up to 180 minutes away from the nearest alternate airport.
• Certain long-haul routes over oceans, polar regions, or remote land masses would be impossible without ETOPS compliance.

Why is ETOPS Important?

Enhanced Route Efficiency

ETOPS allows airlines to plan more direct routes, reducing fuel consumption, flight time, and costs. Without it, flights would need to remain closer to alternate airports, often resulting in longer, less efficient routes.

Safety Assurance

The rigorous standards for ETOPS certification ensure that aircraft, maintenance practices, and crew are fully equipped to handle extended operations over areas with limited diversion options.

Global Connectivity

ETOPS expands the operational range of twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 787 or Airbus A350, allowing them to connect cities across vast oceans or remote regions efficiently and safely.

Economic Benefits

Airlines benefit from lower operating costs by using fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft on long-haul routes traditionally flown by four-engine planes.

How to Enhance ETOPS Operations

skybook’s ETOPS charts are specifically designed to simplify and improve the planning and execution of ETOPS-compliant flights. Here’s how they benefit flight operations:

Automated Chart Generation

Intelligent ETOPS plotting tools eliminate the need for manual chart creation. The system automatically generates ETOPS route plots using critical parameters from the OFP such as:

• ETOPS Alternates (ERAs)
• Equal Time Points (ETPs)
• Rule Times

This not only saves time but ensures accuracy and compliance with regulations. 

Access Anywhere

Pilots and flight planners can access ETOPS charts directly through the Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), the ground portal, as pdf, or via printed documents if needed. This flexibility ensures critical data is available wherever it’s required.

Streamlined Briefing Packs

All ETOPS information integrates seamlessly into flight briefing packs, ensuring pilots have all the data they need, including alternate airports, ETPs, and diversion information, in one easy-to-use package. 

Real-Time Updates

Real-time updates to ETOPS-related data, such as weather changes at alternate airports, providing flight crews with the most up-to-date information for decision-making during the flight.

Ready to optimise your ETOPS operations?

ETOPS (or EDTO) operations are a cornerstone of modern aviation, allowing airlines to connect the world more efficiently and safely. 

Innovative ETOPS charting capabilities not only simplify compliance with these critical regulations but also enhance overall operational efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. 

Get in touch with us to see how skybook can transform your flight planning and operations today!

Article by Dan Cook, Head of Marketing

Bytron Aviation Systems