If you worry about the odds of dying in a plane crash, you’re not alone. Many people wonder how safe flying is compared to other forms of transportation, especially in light of numerous recent aviation crashes.
Understanding the Safety of Air Travel
When examining how often planes crash, the statistics might surprise you. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the odds of dying in an air transport incident are approximately 1 in 11,756. This includes various types of air travel, not just commercial flights. The risk is even lower for commercial airline passengers, specifically, about 1 in 13.7 million, according to an MIT study analyzing data from 2018 to 2022.
Compare the aviation statistics to the NSC’s estimate of 1 in 101 as your odds of dying in a vehicle crash, and it is clear that, statistically, flying is far safer than driving.
Why is Air Travel So Safe?
Commercial aviation has become much safer over the years. Modern planes have backup systems, strict maintenance routines, and skilled pilots, which help create strong safety records. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposes strict safety rules, including thorough pilot training, regular aircraft checks, and air traffic control measures to prevent accidents.
New technology in aviation has also improved safety. Better navigation systems, real-time weather updates, and automated alerts help pilots dodge dangerous situations. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates aviation incidents closely. This work leads to ongoing safety improvements.
No form of transportation is completely risk-free, but data shows that flying is one of the safest options. Passengers can trust that the aviation industry focuses on safety through innovation, regulation, and careful monitoring.
Common Fears About Flying
Despite the statistics, many people experience anxiety when flying. The thought of being thousands of feet in the air can trigger intense fear responses. Some common fears include:
- Turbulence causing a crash
- Engine failure
- Pilot error
- Extreme weather conditions
These fears, while understandable, often don’t align with the actual risks. Aviation experts work continuously to address these concerns through improved technology and procedures. Turbulence, for example, rarely causes accidents, and modern planes can fly safely even if an engine fails.
Driving Risks vs. Flying Risks
Historically, commercial aviation in the U.S. has had a great safety record. However, recent events have changed this trend. In early 2025, there were several fatal aviation incidents, including a mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., and a crash in Alaska. These remind us that while aviation is very safe, risks still exist.
In contrast, motor vehicle accidents pose a much bigger threat to public safety. In 2023, about 40,990 people died in car crashes in the U.S. Driving is riskier for several reasons:
- Human Error: Distractions, impairment, and fatigue cause many car crashes.
- Environmental Variables: Weather, traffic, and road conditions can increase accident chances.
- Vehicle Safety Limitations: Modern cars have safety features but lack the backup systems in commercial planes.
- Lack of Air Traffic Control for Roads: Unlike aviation, where air traffic controllers manage aircraft, drivers operate alone, leading to more chances for mistakes and crashes.
Air travel safety continues to improve thanks to new technology, better training, and lessons from past incidents. The aviation industry works hard to maintain safety through strict protocols, tech advancements, and regulations. While no travel method is completely risk-free, passengers can feel secure knowing that flying is one of the safest ways to travel.
Make an Informed Decision
Despite recent aviation accidents, flying is still safer than driving. The aviation industry’s strong focus on safety makes flying very secure. If you’ve been in an accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options for getting compensation for injuries from any transportation-related accident.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers At Joel E. Brown, P.C. in Peoria, IL for Assistance Today
To learn more, contact our skilled personal injury attorney at Joel E. Brown, P.C to schedule a free consultation. We are conveniently located in Peoria and proudly serve Peoria County, IL, and the neighboring communities.
Joel E. Brown, P.C
416 Main Street Suite 1300, Peoria, IL 61602
(309) 673 4357
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