Space Plane - How to Turn Off Jet Engines

[AndersSchm]

I have a space plane design where I have two jet engines and two rocket engines. I get to high altitude on jets alone, then fire the rocket stage to try to get to orbit.

However I always seem to get the situation where air starvation causes one of the jets to cut out and start the plane spinning. The only thing I have found to do is right click on the engines and block the air intakes before I get too high however this is cumbersome and I want a method to turn off both engines at once.

Is there a shortcut to turn off my jets or is there a more effective way than right clicking on the components?

[Eric S]

Yes. Create an action group that shuts off (or toggles) both engines at the same time. If you don't know how to do that, feel free to ask for more details.

[ComradeGoat]

Remember to set an action group to toggle the intakes at the same time as the jets. Here's how I usually do my SSTO actions:

1 - Activate jets, deactivate rocket(s).

2 - Toggle primary rockets

3 - Toggle jets, Toggle Intakes

4 - Toggle solar panels

5 - Toggle secondary rockets (if fitted)

You can set up action groups by clicking the blue tool thingy at the top of the VAB/SPH.

[AndersSchm]

Thanks, didn't realise how to use action groups but have worked it out now.

[SDIR]

Another way is to have a single jet engine and two rockets. That way, if the jet flames out, then there will be no spin.