We present the use of transtracheal jet ventilation in two uncooperative patients with a difficult airway. Although transtracheal jet ventilation is considered as a last resort option in the difficult airway algorithm, its use can be a valuable tool in selected difficult airway situations. Transtracheal jet ventilation can effectively maintain arterial oxygenation and provide extra time for attempts to intubate the trachea, either directly or fibreoptically.