Definition
An electrical system design in which an aircraft is equipped with two or more independent generators (or alternators), each capable of supplying electrical power to the aircraft's electrical buses, providing redundancy so that the failure of one generator does not result in a total loss of electrical power.
Plain English
The aircraft has more than one generator on board, so if one stops working, another can keep the electrical system powered.
Context Anchor
Seen in abnormal and emergency procedure discussions for generator failure, especially when deciding what electrical equipment will still be available.
Derivation
Multiple comes from Latin roots meaning “many folds” or “more than one.” Generator comes from a root meaning “to produce.” Together, the phrase points to more than one unit that produces electrical power.
Why Pilots Care
Redundant generators prevent total electrical loss, keeping flight instruments, navigation, and communication available during a failure.
Intuition Check
Do not assume multiple generators means the aircraft can keep using everything normally after one fails. It only means there is more than one power source; the pilot may still need to reduce electrical use and follow the checklist.
Example Sentence 1
Because the aircraft has multiple generators, the loss of the left generator left the electrical system fully powered by the right generator.
Example Sentence 2
With multiple generators online, the pilot could shed nonessential loads and continue the approach using the remaining generator.