What is an ETOPS rating?

ETOPS refers to extended range operations. It is a set of regulations governing the design, maintenance, and operation of twin-engine aircraft that allows them to be certified to fly particular routes. For example, a plane that is ETOPS-180 certified may fly routes that take it up to 180 minutes from the nearest diversion airport. In the northern hemisphere most routes are covered under ETOPS-120 certification and the longer ETOPS-180 certification makes about 95% of the earth’s surface accessible. ETOPS-240 covers the longest flights in the southern hemisphere, including Sydney to Santiago, the longest over-water flight currently flown. The higher ratings allow the planes to fly more direct routes, using less fuel, and delivering passengers to their destinations faster.