Freakonomics Radio

535. Why Is Flying Safer Than Driving?

74 snips
Mar 2, 2023
Adam Yuhan, a commercial airline pilot and former Air Force pilot, along with Billy Nolan, acting administrator of the FAA, delve into the striking safety comparisons between flying and driving. They discuss how rigorous training and advanced regulations have made air travel significantly safer over the decades. The conversation touches on the potential to apply aviation lessons to improve road safety, the importance of flight attendants in managing turbulence, and the ongoing challenges posed by a pilot shortage in the industry.
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ANECDOTE

Smoke and Fumes Emergency

  • Adam Yuhan, an airline pilot, faced a smoke and fumes emergency during an Air Force flight.
  • He and his co-pilot successfully landed the plane after a suspected fire.
INSIGHT

Improved Airline Safety

  • Airline safety has dramatically improved, with incidents being rare.
  • Adam Yuhan emphasizes the rarity of frightening events in his airline career.
INSIGHT

Low Fatality Rate

  • Since 2010, only two fatal accidents involving large U.S. carriers occurred.
  • This statistic highlights the remarkable safety record of U.S. airlines.
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