Why, with the reliability of modern turbofan engines & ETOPS operations, should "4 engines 4 longhaul" (like the Virgin fallacy displayed on its hulls) be any better?
Before replying emotively I think we should look at the statistics. Have any modern longhaul twin-engine airliners had a double-engine failure? I don't mean those due to fuel starvation, this is just as likely to happen to a four-or-more engined machine.
If anyone can quote some figures that would be great!