An embodiment of an engine assembly includes a plurality of offtakes powered by a combustion turbine engine having a high spool and at least one lower spool, and a controller configured to operate the combustion turbine engine through a range between a first low-idle mode, a second high idle mode, and a maximum takeoff power rating mode. The controller operates the engine in the low-idle mode by directing at least a first portion of power from the at least one lower spool to the plurality of offtakes, and wherein the controller operates the engine in the high idle mode by increasing a speed of the high spool relative to a speed of the high spool in the low-idle mode, thereby increasing a compressor outlet (T3) temperature in the high idle mode relative to a T3 temperature in the low-idle mode.