Is this normal? · Descent
The engines went almost silent at the start of descent
Short answer
Normal. Airplanes often descend with the engines near idle, almost like gliding downhill.
Where this comes from
Thunks, whirs, chimes and the famous "barking dog" — what you're hearing, from gate to gate.
Read: Normal sounds on a flight
Based on: FAA Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3); FAA, "Turbulence: Staying Safe" (seat belt sign rules).
Other moments people ask about
- The engines got quieter soon after takeoff · Climb
- A thunk and rumble just after liftoff · Climb
- A whirring or grinding noise from the wings · Climb & descent
- A barking or buzzing sound while taxiing · On the ground
- The cabin lights flickered or went quiet at the gate · On the ground
- Bumps and shaking in turbulence · Cruise