In recent weeks, the media has reported on multiple airplane crashes, sparking concerns about aviation safety. Some of the most significant incidents include Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243, which was struck by a Russian surface-to-air missile while approaching Grozny and crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 of the 67 people on board. In South Korea, Jeju Air Flight 2216 suffered a bird strike that disabled both engines, leading to a crash at Muan International Airport, making it the deadliest aviation disaster in the country’s history, with 179 fatalities. Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., American Airlines Flight 5342 collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River, killing all 67 people aboard both aircraft, including 28 members of the U.S. figure skating community. In Toronto, Delta Air Lines Flight DL4819 crash-landed at Pearson International Airport, flipping upon impact. While all 80 passengers survived, 21 were hospitalized with injuries.
With media coverage heavily focused on these disasters, many travelers are understandably anxious about flying. “It’s very strange to see how many planes have crashed recently, and all within such a short period of time” says Bridget, a 10th grader. Lara, an 11th grader, shares a similar concern, calling the recent crashes “very concerning.” As spring break approaches and EF students prepare to travel worldwide, it’s important to evaluate whether these fears are justified or if air travel remains as safe as ever.
One of the biggest reasons for worry is the increase in aviation fatalities. In early 2025, the U.S. experienced multiple fatal air crashes, ending a 15-year period of relative safety. The midair collision over the Potomac River alone claimed 67 lives, including very young elite athletes, adding to the growing unease.
Beyond individual incidents, experts have raised concerns about systemic issues affecting aviation safety. The airline industry is currently facing shortages of air traffic controllers and experienced pilots, while passenger demand continues to rise. This pressure on the system could contribute to a higher risk of errors and accidents. “It would be too much of a coincidence for all of these crashes to happen without some technical issues being present,” Bridget speculates.
Despite the recent tragedies, statistics show that air travel remains one of the safest ways to get from one place to another. In January 2024, there were 80 aviation crashes; in January 2025, that number dropped to 63. Similarly, in 2024, there were 1,417 aviation crashes worldwide, with 258 being fatal. In the first two months of 2025, 99 aviation accidents were recorded, only 14 of which were fatal.
Aviation safety has also consistently improved over the past decades. The recent spike in accidents does not indicate a long-term shift in safety trends. Airlines, regulatory agencies, and manufacturers continue to implement safety measures, from improved pilot training to advanced technology designed to prevent crashes.
Even though air travel is statistically the safest form of transportation, that doesn’t necessarily mean everyone finds it comforting. “When you’re uncertain of something and bad things are happening, that’s just a formula for anxiety,” Bridget admits. Lara prefers traveling by car when possible, finding it more efficient and environmentally friendly. “I also feel safer in a car because I know and trust the people I drive with, whereas an airplane pilot is usually a complete stranger,” Bridget adds.
While the recent accidents are tragic and have understandably heightened public concern, air travel remains one of the safest means of transportation. The aviation industry continuously works to enhance safety standards, and statistical trends show that flying isn’t becoming significantly more dangerous. For EF students heading out on their spring break trips, the data is reassuring. Despite recent headlines, getting on a plane is still incredibly safe.
