In recent years, the aviation industry has experienced an unprecedented period of safety. In 2023, 23 runway incursions were classified as serious incidents, yet the overall safety of commercial air travel continues to reach new heights. Fewer fatalities have been recorded on scheduled commercial airliners over the past 15 years than in any other comparable period. This trend underscores the remarkable safety advancements that have occurred in the industry, particularly in the United States.
The current state of aviation safety marks a historic achievement. The number of fatal accidents in 2022 reached a record low, and January 2025 is on track to surpass this record with eight fewer total accidents than the previous low of 70 from January 2012. This progress is noteworthy when considering the context of earlier decades. In 1982 and 1983, over 600 fatal accidents were reported. Each of the past 12 years has seen fewer accidents than any previous year dating back to at least 1982, highlighting a sustained trend of improvement.
The record low number of airplane accidents nationwide last month encapsulates this success. A total of 62 accidents were reported, with most occurring on private flights. The number of fatal accidents last month could tie with 2022 for the safest January on record, further cementing this era of aviation safety. Additionally, just two of the most serious types of near misses occurred in 2024, and the number of serious runway incursions fell to seven.
The trendline remains consistent when combining data from both private and commercial air travel. Last year recorded fewer accidents and fewer fatal accidents—257—than any prior year. Such figures emphasize the overall decline in aviation-related incidents. Of the ten fatal accidents reported in January 2025, only one involved a commercial airliner, underscoring the continued safety within commercial aviation.
These statistics are not anomalies but rather a testament to continuous improvements in aviation technology, regulation, and safety protocols. The sector's commitment to safety has been unwavering, leading to substantial reductions in both the frequency and severity of accidents.
