The Bunker – News without the nonsense Are planes really crashing more often?
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Jun 26, 2025 In this conversation, John Walton, an aviation and travel journalist and Editor at The Upfront, unpacks the myth surrounding rising airplane crash fears. He discusses how recent tragedies skew public perception despite impressive safety advancements. Walton debunks common misconceptions about air travel’s risks and highlights the strides in aircraft design. The episode also tackles the aviation industry's environmental challenges and sustainable fuel solutions, emphasizing the need for greener practices amid looming emissions concerns.
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Crash Frequency Perception vs Reality
- Plane crashes are not actually becoming more frequent despite appearances.
- The increase in media coverage and social media amplify the perception of risk.
Aviation Safety Culture Benefits
- Aviation safety improved dramatically due to a strong culture of safety and detailed investigations.
- International regulations ensure continuous learning and risk mitigation after every incident.
Post-Accident Safety Improvements
- Aviation investigations lead to stricter safety standards after accidents.
- For example, seat tests now must withstand 16G impacts to improve survivability.