Air travel is often considered the safest mode of transportation, but with 87 reported plane accidents in 2025, many people are starting to wonder: Are airplanes becoming more dangerous?
The fear of flying is nothing new, but when headlines report increasing incidents, it’s natural for passengers to feel uneasy. However, before jumping to conclusions, it’s essential to look at the facts, understand why these incidents are happening, and get insight from Black pilots and aviation experts on what this means for air travel safety.
Are Planes Less Safe Now? The Truth Behind the Numbers
Headlines about plane crashes can be terrifying, but they don’t always tell the full story. While 87 crashes may seem like a lot, we need to put that number into context.
Understanding the Data: Are Crashes Increasing?
The Aviation Safety Network (ASN) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) track global aviation incidents. According to historical data:
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- In 2023, there were 112 reported plane crashes, with only 13 involving fatalities.
- In 2024, there were 96 crashes, maintaining a steady trend in aviation safety.
- Airline accidents peaked in the 1970s and 1980s before modern safety technology improved.
So, while 87 crashes in 2025 may seem concerning, it doesn’t necessarily mean flying is less safe than before. In fact, air travel remains statistically safer than driving, with the odds of dying in a plane crash at about one in 11 million compared to 1 in 101 for car accidents.
What Counts as a “Crash”?
Not every aviation incident is the same. When people hear “plane crash,” they often imagine catastrophic events with fatalities. However, the term includes a range of incidents, such as:
- Hard landings (where a plane lands with more force than usual but without major damage).
- Runway overruns (where a plane slides past the runway, but passengers are safe).
- Mid-air technical issues requiring emergency landings.
- Small private aircraft crashes, which make up the majority of aviation accidents.
Most of the 87 reported crashes in 2025 involved small planes, cargo aircraft, and non-commercial flights. This means that major commercial airlines maintain a strong safety record even when accidents occur.
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Why These Incidents Are Happening More Often
If aviation safety has improved, why are we still seeing accidents? Several factors contributed to the reported increase in incidents in 2025.
1. Pilot Shortages and Fatigue
One of the biggest concerns in aviation right now is the global pilot shortage. The demand for air travel has surged post-pandemic, and airlines are struggling to train and retain experienced pilots.
- Many veteran pilots retired early due to COVID-related airline layoffs.
- Newer pilots may lack the same level of experience as previous generations.
- Fatigue is becoming a major issue, with pilots working longer hours to fill scheduling gaps.
Fatigue can lead to slow reaction times and increased human error, which is a leading cause of aviation incidents.
2. Climate Change and More Extreme Weather
Climate change has increased weather-related aviation incidents in recent years. More severe storms, turbulence, and unpredictable weather patterns make flying riskier, even for experienced pilots.
- Clear-air turbulence (which occurs without warning and is invisible to radar) has increased due to rising global temperatures.
- More violent storms and wind shear make landings more difficult.
- Runway conditions are changing as extreme heat can affect takeoff performance.
3. Aircraft Maintenance and Technical Issues
As airlines try to cut costs, some delay routine maintenance checks or rely on older aircraft longer than intended.
- Some aircraft models, like the Boeing 737 MAX, have already faced safety concerns in previous years.
- Budget airlines in developing countries may lack the same safety standards as larger, well-established carriers.
- Supply chain issues have delayed replacing aging parts, leading to more in-flight technical issues.
What Black Pilots Say About Air Travel Safety
Aviation remains a predominantly white and male industry, but Black pilots are making strides in representation. As pilots of color continue to break barriers, their perspectives on air travel safety are invaluable.
A recent discussion with Black aviators, highlighted in this YouTube interview, sheds light on the reality of flying in 2025.
Key Insights from Black Pilots:
- Flying is still incredibly safe – Despite media panic, commercial airliners are safer than ever due to strict regulations and technology improvements.
- Pilot training is rigorous – Regardless of experience level, every airline pilot must pass extensive simulator tests and real-world evaluations.
- Diversity matters in aviation safety – Increasing diversity in aviation helps bring new perspectives and better decision-making to the cockpit.
- Trust in major airlines – While smaller charter and private planes may have issues, major commercial carriers maintain high safety standards.
Many Black pilots emphasize that aviation safety is improving while accidents happen, and passengers should not be overly alarmed.
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Should You Cancel Your Flight? Expert Advice
With all this information in mind, TSA, and FAA Flight Safety Recommendations, should you be worried enough to cancel your flight? The short answer is no.
When to Reconsider Flying:
- If weather conditions are extreme and your airline allows rescheduling, you may want to opt for a later date.
- If you’re flying with a budget airline with a poor safety record, check reviews and consider switching to a major carrier.
- If you feel anxious about flying, consider researching safety procedures, watching educational videos, or talking to a pilot.
When It’s Safe to Fly:
- If you’re booked on a reputable airline with a strong safety record.
- If you’re traveling on a newer aircraft model with advanced safety features.
- If your flight crew is trained and experienced, trust that they are well-prepared for any situation.
Should We Be Worried?
While 87 plane crashes in 2025 sounds alarming, the reality is that commercial aviation remains incredibly safe. Most of these incidents involve small, private aircraft rather than large commercial jets.
Black pilots and aviation experts reaffirm that flying is still one of the safest travel methods. However, passengers should stay informed about airline safety practices and always choose reputable carriers when possible.
So, should you be worried? No—but staying informed is always a good idea. Safe travels!
