Decoder with Nilay Patel cover image

Decoder with Nilay Patel

Flying is still safe, for now — but the FAA isn’t

Mar 6, 2025
Andy Hawkins, transportation editor at The Verge, dives into the current landscape of air travel safety. He discusses the paradox of rising media attention on airplane crashes despite record safety levels. The conversation highlights concerns about aging air traffic control systems and ongoing staffing challenges within the FAA. They also explore Elon Musk's influence on aviation technology and the potential privatization of air traffic control, stressing the importance of experienced personnel in maintaining safety.
40:43

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Despite recent high-profile crashes raising public anxiety, air travel remains statistically safer than ever with one fatality per 13.7 million passengers.
  • The U.S. air traffic control system faces critical challenges due to underfunding and staffing shortages, necessitating immediate recruitment and retention efforts.

Deep dives

Changing Perceptions of Air Travel Safety

Recent incidents in air travel, including high-profile crashes and midair collisions, have shifted public perception about the safety of flying. Despite several tragic events, statistics reveal that air travel is safer than ever, with one fatality occurring for every 13.7 million passengers between 2018 and 2022. This paradox lies in the clustering of accidents, which has heightened anxiety among travelers. As people become more aware of these incidents, the perception of risk in air travel has increased, even if the actual safety data indicates a decrease in fatalities over time.

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