Originally Posted by
Discorde
Years ago I was among a group of trainers who suggested to our managers that we should refer to 'engine 1' and 'engine 2' rather than 'left' and 'right' to remove this uncertainty. The numerical designation also removes the ambiguity arising from observers facing forward or aft. Nothing came of our input.
Isn't that the terminology that's been used since the year dot? And for 4-engined aircraft there is little alternative.