Today, Explained Is flying still safe?
92 snips
Feb 27, 2025 
Daryl Campbell, an aviation writer for The Verge, and Captain John Cox, CEO of Safety Operating System with 55 years of flying experience, dive into recent aviation safety concerns. They discuss how recent crashes and near misses have raised public anxiety, despite data showing air travel is still incredibly safe. The conversation highlights the evolution of safety measures, systemic industry issues, and the complexities of ensuring passenger safety, along with the critical role of the FAA amidst recent staffing challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Recent Aviation Incidents
- Recent incidents like the Delta flight landing upside down in Toronto and a near-miss between a Southwest flight and a private jet have raised concerns.
- Other events include a medevac crash in Philadelphia, a crash in Alaska, and a helicopter collision with a commercial flight in D.C.
Aviation Safety
- Despite recent events, commercial aviation remains statistically safer than driving.
- The perceived increase in incidents may be due to better accident recording and increased media coverage.
Flying vs. Driving
- Driving carries a roughly 1% lifetime risk of a fatal crash.
- Flying offers far lower odds: you could fly twice daily for 2,500 years before facing similar risk.