What Airline Has the Most Crashes? 2025 Update

What airline has the most crashes as of 2025? To find the safest airlines and most dangerous airlines in the U.S and around the world, the Chicago aviation accident attorney team at Curcio & Casciato has conducted an extensive analysis to determine which commercial airline has the most plane crashes. Data for many crashes in aviation history covers the 1980s to the early 2000s, and additional research from later years was also included in some parts of the study of the safest airlines and most dangerous airlines in the United States and around the world.

Boeing’s recent plane crashes have raised concerns about the safety measures of traveling on airplanes. While air travel is regarded as one of the safest transportation methods around the world, these recent commercial aircraft accidents show the devastating consequences that can occur when most plane crashes, particularly commercial air crashes, happen.

The recent crash prompts critical questions about aviation safety: How frequently do plane crashes actually happen? How many lives have been lost in these fatal accidents? What particular airline and which aircraft manufacturers have the most crashes in the U.S. and around the world?

How Many Airplane Crashes in 2025

As of April 2025, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reports approximately 153 plane crashes in the United States, with 23 of these being deadly. Notable incidents include a mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., on January 29, killing 67 people. Globally, plane crashes have also occurred, such as the Brazilian crash in August 2024 that killed 62 people.

How Many Airplane Crashes in 2024

In 2024, the United States recorded approximately 1,417 plane crashes, with 258 being fatal events. Globally, there were seven deadly plane crashes among 40.6 million flights, killing 244 people onboard. A person would need to travel on planes daily for over 15,000 years to be killed on a plane.

Is it Safe to Fly Right Now?

As of April 10, 2025, airplanes remain one of the safest modes of transportation. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there have been 13 fatal crashes in the U.S so far this year, a decrease compared to previous years. The industry continues to prioritize safety measures, resulting in a low risk of plane crashes. While recent incidents may raise concerns, experts emphasize that the overall safety record of air travel remains strong. Statistically, the likelihood of being involved in a plane crash is significantly lower than that of other forms of transportation, such as cars.

Almost 80% of aircraft accidents and 72% of fatal accidents occurred in personal, single-engine planes.

How Many Commercial Plane Crashes in 2025?

As of April 2025, there have been approximately 122 reported plane crashes in the U.S., including 19 fatal crashes resulting in over 100 deaths. While most plane crashes involved general aviation, a small number of plane crashes included commercial airlines, reinforcing public concern about airline safety and pilot error.

One of the most serious plane crashes was an American Eagle regional jet, operated under American Airlines, which collided mid-air with a military aircraft, resulting in 67 fatalities and raising questions about pilot error, flight operations, air traffic controllers, and investments into better satellite tracking.

Despite these high-profile events, U.S. carriers like Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines continue to hold strict FAA compliance, advanced pilot training programs, and updated aircraft maintenance protocols. However, air travel passengers remain wary, often citing concerns about resource management, preparedness in emergency situations, and the reliability of safety measures. With increased pressure to improve airline safety standards, the industry continues to focus on reducing pilot error, enhancing pilot training, and reinforcing passenger trust through transparency and investment in safety.

What are the Safest Airlines in the United States?

What is the Best Airline in the United States?

Alaska Airlines is the safest airline in the United States. Hawaiian Airlines is the second safest airline.

American Airlines is also ranked among the safest airlines in the U.S. due to adherence to FAA regulations, advanced safety measures, and established pilot training protocols. Operating one of the world’s largest commercial fleets, they also oversee American Eagle, its regional brand, which upholds the same safety measures. No airline is free of incidents, but American Airlines has maintained a strong safety record in recent years. The last fatal event involving American Airlines occurred on January 29, 2025. On that date, American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines on behalf of American Airlines, was on approach when it collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River. All 64 passengers and crew members aboard the CRJ700 aircraft, as well as the 3 military personnel in the helicopter, lost their lives.

Prior to this incident, the last fatal accident involving American Airlines was on November 12, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 587 crashed in the Belle Harbor neighborhood of Queens, New York. This crash killed all 260 passengers on board and 5 people on the ground.

The airline’s continued investment in to maintain aircraftsand improved training has helped position the airlines as one of the safest airlines in the U.S. It is ranked 13th around the world as of 2025.

What is the Second Safest Airline in the United States?

Delta is the second safest airline in the United States. The airline is known for safety measures and investments in technology. As a leading name in the airline industry, Delta operates thousands of flights weekly with a focus on passenger safety, advanced protocols to maintain aircraft, and industry-leading safety management systems. The airline’s emphasis on pilot training and adherence to FAA compliance helps it maintain its safety rating among the top-rated U.S. carriers.

Delta is recognized around the world for safety, thanks to pilot training, proactive risk assessment, and better satellite tracking. While the airline experienced a fatal crash in 1996 and notable incidents like a runway overrun in 2006 involving a regional affiliate, there have been no fatal accidents involving Delta-operated aircraft in nearly three decades—a safety record most airlines don’t have.

What are the Safest Airlines in the World?

What is the Best Airline in the World?

Air New Zealand is the safest airline around the world due to its advanced safety measures, technology in flight operations, and consistent focus on airline safety. With a modern and efficient fleet, Air New Zealand uses better satellite tracking, advanced aircraft maintenance protocols, and rigorous pilot training programs to minimize risk of plane crashes.

What is the Second Safest Airline in the World?

Qantas is the second safest global airlines, known for its safety record and commitment to pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and advanced safety measures. The airline has not had a fatal crash in the jet era, making it a top example in aviation history. Despite operating across long international routes, including flights over the Atlantic Ocean and remote regions, Qantas maintains one of the lowest rates of plane crashes. It is often highlighted alongside American, Delta Air Lines, and British Airways, but stands out for its long-standing safety performance, zero deaths in recent decades, and implementation of better satellite tracking and crew resource management.

Most Dangerous Airlines In the United States

While the U.S. maintains strict aviation safety standards, historical data indicate that some airlines have faced more safety issues than others. This information can be critical for understanding how to avoid U.S. airlines with the most plane crashes.

When evaluating airline safety within the U.S., it’s important to consider historical data and recent incidents. As of April 2024, American Airlines and Air France each have recorded 11 plane crashes, the highest number among global airlines. Additionally, United Airlines has experienced seven crashes, and American Eagle, the regional branch of American Airlines, has had five plane crashes.

So, in the U.S., the airline with the most plane crashes is American Airlines.

Most Dangerous Airlines in the World

Certain global airlines have worse safety records. These statistics are crucial for passengers and the industry in assessing potential risks for using other airlines around the globe.

Air France and American Airlines have the most plane crashes, with 11 air crashes each. However, two plane crashes associated with American Airlines happened on September 11th, 2001. Two out of the seven accidents associated with United Airlines also occurred on this day.

Interesting statistic: American Eagle is a regional branch of American Airlines. The combined plane crashes for these two airlines are 16 accidents.

Another interesting statistic: Continental Airlines merged with United Airlines in 2012. The combined plane crashes for these two airlines are 12 accidents.

Here are the most dangerous airlines in the world, according to the number of plane crashes. The following shows the global airlines and how many plane crashes the particular airline has, as of 2025:

American Airlines: 11 plane crashes and the most plane crashes around the world
Air France: 11 plane crashes and the most plane crashes around the world’s largest
China Airlines: 9 plane crashes
Korean Air: 9 plane crashes
Pakistan International Airlines: 8 plane crashes
United Airlines: 7 plane crashes
Egyptair: 6 plane crashes
Ethiopian Airlines: 6 plane crashes
Thai Airways: 6 plane crashes
American Eagle: 5 plane crashes
Continental Airlines: 5 plane crashes
Lufthansa: 5 plane crashes
Garuda Indonesia: 4 plane crashes
TAM Airlines: 4 plane crashes
Turkish Airlines: 4 plane crashes
Avianca: 4 plane crashes
Philippine Airlines: 4 plane crashes
Cubana de Aviación: 4 plane crashes
Indian Airlines: 4 plane crashes
China Eastern Airlines: 3 plane crashes

Notable Fatal Crash Statistics by Airline

While most crashes are not considered a ‘fatal accident,’ here are some examples of air crashes that had a high number of fatalities recorded:

Air France: June 2009, Air France Flight 477 crash-landed in the Atlantic Ocean. The Air France fatal accident killed all 228 passengers onboard. Air France has since caused several plane crashes.
Air China: May 2002, Flight 611 disintegrated in mid-air due to improper maintenance. The fatal accident killed all 225 passengers onboard.
United Airlines: Sept 1965, Flight 389 crash-landed in Salt Lake City. The fatal accident killed 43 of 91 passengers.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): On May 22, 2020, Pakistan International Airlines’ pilot error during a landing attempt in Karachi; both engines failed after scraping the runway on the first approach. The Pakistan International Airlines plane crash killed 97 of the 99 people on board.
Thai Airlines: In August 1987, Thai Airlines Flight 365 crashed near Phuket. The Thai Airlines fatal accident killed all 83 passengers.
Ethiopian Airlines: March 10, 2019, MCAS system failure (linked to Boeing design flaw); led to the global grounding of 737 MAX fleet. The Ethiopian Airlines plane crash killed all 157 people.
Ukraine International Airlines (UIA): January 8, 2020, Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 was shot down by the Iranian military, killing all 176 people.
Korean Air: September 1, 1983, Korean Air Flight 007 was shot down by Soviet fighter jets after straying into Soviet airspace, killing all 269 people.

A hostile takeover has also caused many aircraft accidents. Russian separatist forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps shot down Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752.

United Airlines Accident Statistics

Historically, United Airlines has been involved in several fatal accidents, particularly in the earlier decades of aviation history. One would need to sum up the fatalities from all these incidents for an accurate count. Key fatal events include:

United Airlines Flight 823 in 1964 with 39 fatalities.
United Airlines Flight 553 in 1972 with 45 fatalities.
United Airlines Flight 2860 in 1977 with 3 fatalities.
United Airlines Flight 232 in 1989 with 112 fatalities out of 296 people on board.
United Airlines Flight 175 and United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001, were part of terrorist attacks, with all passengers and crew members on board both flights perishing.

However, there have been many crashes without fatalities related to United Airlines. Here is a comprehensive list of reportable accidents and incidents involving United Airlines flights from January 2024 through April 2025:

January 11, 2024: A near-miss incident occurred involving United Airlines Flight 1724 from San Francisco and Delta Air Lines Flight 1070 from Detroit near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Both airplanes received Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) alerts and performed evasive maneuvers to miss the other airplane.
March 1, 2024: United Airlines Flight UA883 from London to Newark was diverted to Bangor, Maine, due to two drunk and unruly passengers. They were removed from the flight and subsequently banned from all United Airlines flights.
July 2024: There were two incidents. On July 8, 2024, a United Airlines Boeing 757-200 lost a main landing-gear wheel after departing Los Angeles International Airport. The airplane landed safely in Denver. On July 19, United Airlines experienced a temporary stop due to a global IT outage related to CrowdStrike, affecting numerous flights and causing cancellations and delays.
August 28, 2024: United Airlines Flight 1196 from Cancún to Chicago encountered severe turbulence, resulting in injuries to seven passengers. The Boeing 737 diverted to Memphis, Tennessee, where paramedics transported one passenger to the hospital.
September 2024: On September 19, 2024, United Airlines Flight 2428 from Newark to San Francisco had to abruptly slow its descent to avoid an airplane crash near San Francisco International Airport. Two passengers were injured during the sudden maneuver. Then on September 23, a woman was removed from a United Airlines flight after allegedly attempting to open the emergency door and making racist remarks, prompting an emergency landing
October 28, 2024: A passenger aboard a United Airlines flight between San Francisco and Washington Dulles attacked a sleeping passenger, causing minor injuries. Other passengers restrained the attacker.
December 2024: On December 24, 2024, upon landing at Kahului Airport in Maui, Hawaii, the body of an unidentified individual was discovered in the landing gear compartment of United Airlines Flight 202, which had originated from Chicago. Then on December 31, United Airlines Flight 2225, a Boeing 757-324 en route from Chicago to Phoenix with a stopover in Albuquerque, reported smoke in the cockpit while on the ground at Albuquerque International Airport. The aircraft was evacuated.
January 2025: There were three aircraft accidents. On January 12, 2025, Flight 1727, a Boeing 737 MAX 9 departing from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Phoenix, collided with a coyote on the runway during takeoff. The aircraft returned to the gate for inspection, resulting in a delay. Then on January 24, United Airlines Flight 613, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner traveling from Lagos, Nigeria, to Washington Dulles International Airport, experienced a sudden altitude drop over Côte d’Ivoire. Nearly 40 passengers sustained injuries due to the abrupt descent. Investigations revealed that both Inertial Reference Units (IRUs) had failed prior to the incident. Then on January 28, United Airlines flight 2143, a Boeing 767-400 scheduled from Newark Liberty International Airport to San Juan, Puerto Rico, had a fire alarm triggered in the cargo hold shortly after takeoff.
February 2, 2025: United Airlines Flight 1382, an Airbus A320 departing from George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston to LaGuardia Airport in New York, aborted takeoff due to an engine fire. Passengers were evacuated safely; the fire was extinguished without injuries.
March 2, 2025: United Airlines had two aircraft accidents. On March 2, 2025, a United Airlines flight from Springfield, Missouri, to Houston encountered severe turbulence, resulting in injuries to five passengers. The aircraft diverted to Waco Regional Airport for medical assistance. On March 18, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that a United Airlines Boeing 787 suffered navigation equipment failures before experiencing sudden jolts that injured passengers.
April 3, 2025: A United Airlines Boeing 737 flight from Key West, Florida, to Newark, New Jersey, reported a fire in the cabin, prompting a diversion to Washington Dulles International Airport. The incident involved light smoke emanating from a galley oven; all passengers and crew disembarked safely.

Southwest Airlines Accident Statistics

Between January 2024 and April 2025, Southwest Airlines experienced several notable incidents but had no major plane crashes:

April 2024: A Southwest flight near Hawaii descended to approximately 400 feet above the ocean after the pilot inadvertently pushed forward on the control column.
May 25, 2024: A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 experienced a “Dutch roll” at 32,000 feet after departing Phoenix.
July 2024: There were two incidents. On July 14, a Southwest Airlines flight from Columbus, Ohio, to Tampa, Florida, descended to 150 feet over Old Tampa Bay near the Courtney Campbell Causeway before diverting to Fort Lauderdale. Then on July 19, Southwest Airlines was unaffected by the global IT outage related to CrowdStrike that impacted many airlines.
September 12, 2024: At Nashville International Airport, an Alaska Airlines jet aborted takeoff to avoid a Southwest jet crossing the same runway.
November 15, 2024: Southwest Airlines Flight 3316 from Denver to Houston was evacuated after a passenger’s phone battery ignited before takeoff.
December 2024: A Southwest jet landed on an occupied runway at Long Beach Airport, narrowly avoiding a plane crash. The FAA completed a review of Southwest Airlines’ safety practices, finding no significant issues.
February 2025: A Southwest plane aborted landing at Chicago’s Midway Airport to avoid a private jet on the runway.
March 2025: A Southwest flight at Orlando International Airport began takeoff on a taxiway before being stopped by air traffic control.

Delta Air Lines Accident Statistics

As previously stated, Delta Air Lines has the best safety record in the U.S. The last fatality recorded on a Delta Air Lines flight was July 6, 1996. Two fatalities occurred out of the 147 occupants. Before this, the last fatal crash occurred due to pilot error on August 31, 1988, causing 14 fatalities out of 108 occupants.

However, between January 2024 and April 2025, Delta Air Lines experienced several notable incidents:

January 2024: There were two incidents. On January 1, at Salt Lake City International Airport, a passenger entered the tarmac unauthorized and was killed after coming into contact with the engine of a stationary Delta Air Lines Airbus A220-100 during de-icing procedures. On January 20, Delta Air Lines Flight 982, a Boeing 757-200 departing from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Bogotá, Colombia, lost its nose wheel just before takeoff.
August 27, 2024: During maintenance at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, a tire explosion caused the deaths of a Delta Air Lines employee and a contractor, and injured another employee.
September 10, 2024: At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Delta Air Lines Flight 295, an Airbus A350-900, collided with Delta Connection Flight 5526, a Bombardier CRJ900, on the taxiway.
February 2025: There were two incidents. On February 17, Delta Connection Flight 4819, operated by Endeavor Air using a Bombardier CRJ900LR, crash-landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The aircraft overturned on the runway, resulting in 21 injuries among the 80 occupants; all survived. Investigations indicated the pilot error was the cause. On February 24, A Delta Air Lines Boeing 717, operating Flight 876 from Atlanta to Columbia, South Carolina, experienced cabin smoke shortly after takeoff. The airplane returned to Atlanta, and occupants evacuated via emergency slides.
March 28, 2025: Delta Air Lines Flight 2983, an Airbus A319, departing Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, received a collision alert shortly after takeoff due to proximity to four U.S. Air Force T-38 Talon jets conducting a flyover. Air traffic issued corrective instructions to both pilots to maintain safe separation.

American Airlines Accident Statistics

American Airlines has experienced a number of plane crashes and incidents throughout aviation history. As of January 2025, American Airlines has had almost sixty aircraft hull losses, beginning with the crash of a Ford 5-AT-C Trimotor in August 1931. Notably, American Airlines and Air France are tied for the most plane crashes among global airlines, with 11 each.

Between January 2024 and April 2025, several aircraft accidents and incidents involving American Airlines happened:

July 11, 2024 – An American Airlines Boeing 737 aborted takeoff at Tampa International Airport due to a wheel fire. All passengers and crew evacuated safely.
October 23, 2024 – Two Airbus A319 flights made emergency landings due to engine stall and fire issues.
January 18, 2025 – An American Airlines flight from Chicago to Phoenix experienced two in-flight emergencies, forcing emergency landings in Tulsa and Dallas. An aviation accident lawsuit was filed in February 2025.
January 29, 2025 – American Eagle Flight 5342 collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport. All 67 people aboard both aircraft were killed.
February 2025 – An American Eagle aircraft collided with ground equipment at O’Hare International Airport. A United Airlines employee operating a tug vehicle was severely injured.
April 1, 2025 – Smoke was reported in the cabin of Flight 5406 after landing at Augusta Regional Airport. Passengers deplaned on the runway.
April 3, 2025 – Flight 5457 experienced a nose gear issue before landing safely at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Which Airplane Manufacturer Has the Most Crashes?

Plane crashes and flight incidents often vary by airplane manufacturer, with Boeing models—particularly older 737s and the 737 MAX—linked to a higher number of plane crashes due to widespread use and past design defects. Airbus aircraft like the A320 have had fewer crashes proportionally but still face risks from mechanical issues and pilot error. Regional jets from Embraer and Bombardier have also been named in incidents tied to engine failure and inadequate maintenance. Evaluating manufacturer-related crash data remains essential to improving global airline safety standards.

But which aircraft manufacturer has the most crashes in 2025? Which airplane manufacturer has the highest number of fatal crash accidents?

According to the NTSB database, most crashes involve a:

Cessna: 57,115 plane crashes or incidents
Piper: 36,360 plane crashes or incidents
Beech: 12,856 plane crashes or incidents
Boeing: 5040 plane crashes or incidents
Airbus: 597 plane crashes or incidents

These manufacturers have historically been the largest airplane producers for general aviation purposes.

Airplane Manufacturer With the Most Fatal Accidents

Cessna: 8,358 fatal accidents (with around 148 happening in the past year)
Piper: 6,469 fatal accidents (with around 37 happening in the past year)
Beech: 3,045 fatal accidents (with around 43 happening in the past year)
Boeing: 343 fatal accidents (with around 61 happening in the past year)
Airbus: 40 fatal accidents (with around 19 happening in the past year)

It’s important to note that the number of fatal accidents is just that. For many of these plane crashes, there was only one fatality recorded. There were also many crashes that only had two fatalities recorded. According to the most current information we could compile, here is the list of the number of fatalities recorded from each aircraft manufacturer, as of April 2025:

Cessna (U.S.): at least 9,234 fatalities recorded
Boeing (U.S.): at least 9,158 fatalities recorded
Airbus: at least 2,970 fatalities recorded
DC: 2,897 fatalities recorded
Tupolev: 1,813 fatalities recorded

Most Fatal Accidents in Airline History

When looking at the worst plane accidents recorded by total fatalities, many fatal accidents occurred as a result of military exercises or terrorist attacks. The Aviation Safety Network highlights the following as some of the most fatal accidents in airline operations history:

Tenerife Airport Disaster

The Tenerife Airport Disaster remains one of the most catastrophic plane crashes in aviation history, involving two major airlines—KLM and Pan American World Airways—on March 27, 1977. The collision of two Boeing 747 aircraft on a fog-covered runway at Los Rodeos Airport led to 583 fatalities, making it the deadliest plane crash in a single event. The fatal crash was attributed to a tragic chain of miscommunication between the KLM pilot, air traffic controllers, and crew, highlighting critical failures in pilot training, cockpit communication, and control procedures.

The Tenerife crash also emphasized the importance of better satellite tracking. It stands as a defining example of how pilot error, poor coordination, and lack of emergency situation awareness can lead to catastrophic air crashes, influencing how the aviation industry continues to improve safety measures and reduce the likelihood of such fatal events.

Outlined Airlines: Pan American World Airways
Aircraft: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Boeing 747-206B and Pan Am Boeing 747-121
Date: March 27, 1977
Fatalities: 583 (355 occupant fatalities and 248 ground fatalities)
Survivors: 61
Crash Cause: Pilot error

Japan Airlines Flight 123

Japan Airlines Flight 123 remains one of the deadliest plane crashes in aviation history and the most fatal event or single-aircraft crash ever recorded. On August 12, 1985, the Boeing 747 suffered a catastrophic structural failure due to an improperly repaired rear pressure bulkhead, resulting in the most fatal crash in aviation history, killing 520 of the 524 people on board. The disaster highlighted serious safety concerns related to aircraft maintenance, safety measures, and emergency situations. The crash underscored the importance of FAA oversight, pilot training, and proper repairs to prevent fatal accidents. This tragedy is frequently cited in aviation history and has influenced safety measures adopted by airlines around the world to prevent similar air crashes.

Outlined Airlines: Japan Airlines Flight 123
Aircraft: JAL Boeing 747- 146SR
Airport: Tokyo-Haneda Airport (HND/RJTT)
Date: August 12, 1985
Fatalities: 520
Survivors: 4
Particular Crash Cause: In-flight structure and engine failure

Charkhi Dadri Mid-Air Collision

The Charkhi Dadri mid-air collision occurred on November 12, 1996, when a Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747-168B, operating as Flight 763, collided with a Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin Il-76TD, Flight 1907, over the village of Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, India. When this tragic fatal accident occurred, it killed all 349 passengers and crew on both aircraft, making it the deadliest mid-air plane crash in aviation history and one of the most severe plane crashes in the aviation industry around the world. The investigation attributed the plane crash to pilot error, specifically the Kazakhstan Airlines crew’s deviation from the assigned altitude. This disaster underscored the lack of safety measures of other airlines, leading to the mandatory implementation of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS) in Indian airspace to enhance safety in the aviation industry and prevent similar air crashes.

Outlined Airlines: Kazakhstan Airlines
Aircraft: Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747-168B and Kazakhstan Airlines Ilyushin II-76TD
Airport: Shymkent Airport (CIT/UAII)
Date: November 12, 1996
Fatalities: 349 (37 occupant fatalities and 312 ground fatalities)
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Pilot error

Turkish Airlines Flight 981

Turkish Airlines Flight 981 crashed on March 3, 1974, near Paris, killing all 346 people on board in one of the deadliest plane crashes in aviation history. The fatal crash was caused by a design defect in the cargo door, leading to explosive decompression and loss of control. The flight was unusually crowded due to a British Airways strike, which had forced occupants to switch airlines. Investigators noted that the impact of the British Airways strike indirectly contributed to the high number of fatalities, making the tragedy even more significant in aviation history.

Outlined Airlines: Turkish Airlines
Aircraft: McDonnell Douglas DC-10
Airport: Paris-Orly Airport (ORY/LFPO)
Date: March 3, 1974
Fatalities: 346
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Faulty design

Air India Flight 182

Air India Flight 182 remains one of the deadliest plane crashes in aviation history and a defining example of how terrorism can target global airlines. On June 23, 1985, the Boeing 747 exploded over the Atlantic Ocean after a bomb, linked to operatives associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, detonated mid-flight. All 329 people aboard were killed. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targeted one of the busiest global airlines, highlighting severe gaps in global airline security and coordination. The fatal crash emphasized the need for stronger counterterrorism protocols and improved coordination across global airlines. It also highlighted the importance of better satellite tracking over remote areas like the Atlantic Ocean. The role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps revealed serious security gaps, pushing reforms across the aviation industry.

Outlined Airlines: Air-India
Aircraft: Boeing 747-237B (Boeing 747 “Emperor Kanishka”)
Airport: Montreal-Mirabel International Airport, QC (YMX/CYMX)
Date: June 23, 1985
Fatalities: 329
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Circumstantial evidence points to an explosion.

Saudia Flight 163

Saudia Flight 163 is one of the most tragic plane crashes in aviation history, causing 301 fatalities. On August 19, 1980, the Lockheed L-1011 caught fire shortly after taking off from Riyadh. Although the plane safely landed, all passengers and crew were killed due to delayed evacuation, highlighting inadequate safety measures in emergency situation response and aircraft design. The fatal event raised serious concerns within the aviation industry and among global airlines, prompting changes to FAA, pilot training, and evacuation procedures. It remains one of the deadliest air crashes not caused by impact, underscoring the critical need for faster response during emergency situations around the world.

Outlined Airlines: Saudi Arabian Airlines
Aircraft: Lockheed L-1011 TriStar 200
Airport: Riyadh International Airport (RUH/OERY)
Date: August 19, 1980
Fatalities: 301
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Fire, pilot error, additional errors by crew members

American Airlines Flight 191

American Airlines Flight 191 is one of the deadliest plane crashes in aviation history, and it remains the worst plane crash on U.S. soil. On May 25, 1979, the McDonnell Douglas DC-10, operated by American Airlines, crashed just after taking off from Chicago O’Hare, killing all 271 on board and two people on the ground. The fatal event was caused by improper maintenance, which led to the engine separating from the wing, triggering a catastrophic failure. The disaster raised serious aviation safety concerns and exposed dangerous flaws in pilot training, aircraft design, and federal aviation administration oversight.

This tragedy became a turning point for global airlines and the aviation industry, leading to updated standards, more advanced safety measures, and inspection regulations for wide-body aircraft. It’s frequently cited in studies of air crashes caused by maintenance failures, and it served as one of the most well-documented examples of how one error on one flight can result in a high-fatality aircraft accident. The crash of Flight 191 also emphasized the importance of better satellite tracking, ongoing crew training, and standardization across airlines to prevent future plane crashes.

Outlined Airlines: American Airlines
Aircraft: Donnell Douglas DC-10-10
Airport: Chicago-O’Hare International Airport, IL
Date: May 25, 1979
Fatalities: 273 (271 occupant fatalities and 2 ground fatalities)
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Improper maintenance

American Airlines Flight 587

American Airlines Flight 587 crashed on November 12, 2001, shortly after takeoff from JFK Airport, making it one of the deadliest plane crashes in aviation history. The Airbus A300-600, operated by American Airlines, broke apart in midair after the first officer made aggressive rudder inputs in response to wake turbulence from a Japan Airlines 747. These excessive control movements overstressed the vertical stabilizer, causing it to detach—a catastrophic control issue tied to both pilot error and the plane’s rudder sensitivity.

The plane crash resulted in 265 deaths and exposed a lack of safety measures in pilot training, a misunderstanding of flight control systems, and a structural response to aerodynamic forces. The fatal event prompted major changes across global airlines, with new emphasis on pilot training on rudders, updated manuals, and enhanced simulator programs. The fatal event became a defining example in the aviation industry of how poor pilot response during emergency situations can lead to disaster, reinforcing the ongoing need for stricter aviation industry safety standards and oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Outlined Airlines: American Airlines
Aircraft: Airbus A300B4-605R
Airport: New York-John F. Kennedy International Airport, NY (JFK/KJFK)
Date: November 12, 2001
Fatalities: 265 (260 occupant fatalities and 5 ground fatalities)
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Pilot error

China Airlines Flights 140

China Airlines Flight 140 crashed on April 26, 1994, during its final approach to Nagoya Airport in Japan, killing 264 of the 271 people on board. The China Airlines fatal accident occurred when the crew accidentally activated the take-off/go-around mode during landing. Despite multiple alerts, China Airlines employees failed to regain control due to conflicting inputs between the autopilot system and manual commands—a tragic plane crash tied to both pilot error and flight control system limitations.

The China Airlines disaster exposed critical safety problems in pilot training, especially in handling automation, and led to major procedural reforms across global airlines. It remains one of the deadliest air crashes involving a commercial airline and raised international concerns about the interaction between pilots and automated systems in high-stress flight phases. The China Airlines crash of Flight 140 stands as a serious example in aviation history, prompting the aviation industry to prioritize clearer cockpit warnings, better manual override protocols, and improved training across global airlines to prevent similar fatal events.

Outlined Airlines: China Airlines
Aircraft: Airbus A300B4-622R
Airport: Taipei-Chiang Kai Shek International Airport (TPE/RCTP)
Date: April 26, 1994
Fatalities: 264
Survivors: 7
Particular Crash Cause: Pilot error and improper training of air travel staff

Nigeria Airways Flight 2120

Nigeria Airways Flight 2120 crashed on July 11, 1991, killing all 261 people aboard in one of the deadliest plane crashes involving a commercial airline. The Douglas DC-8, operated by Nationair Canada on behalf of Nigeria Airways, caught fire shortly after takeoff from Jeddah due to underinflated tires that overheated—a direct result of inadequate maintenance and ignored safety warnings. The in-flight fire led to structural failure before landing could be attempted, causing a fatal event.

The tragedy exposed critical safety measure issues in aircraft maintenance, pilot error, and failure to meet Federal Aviation Administration standards. The plane crash prompted widespread review across global airlines, and became a defining example of the consequences of poor oversight, reinforcing the need for stronger safety measures and accountability to prevent similar airline accidents.

Outlined Airlines: Nigeria Airways
Aircraft: McDonnell Douglas DC-8-61
Airport: Jeddah-King Abdulaziz International Airport
Date: July 11, 1991
Fatalities: 261
Survivors: 0
Particular Crash Cause: Improper maintenance

When Do Most Air Crashes Occur?

Not every phase of air travel is equal. According to NTSB data, take-off and landing are when most air crashes occur.

Maneuvering

The maneuvering phase involves complex flight operations near the ground or obstacles, which can lead to aircraft accidents if mishandled.

According to the most recent data, there have been 10,275 plane crashes during this step.

Take Off and Landing

Takeoff and landing are critical phases of airline flights that involve significant operational challenges and are frequent stages for most air crashes. An interesting statistic: while the landing is when most plane crashes occur, most crashes involving a forced landing were the least fatal.

According to the most recent data, there have been 20,330 plane crashes during landing and 16,061 air crashes during takeoff. Under 2%of planes that crash-landed resulted in even only one fatality, compared to 15.7% fatal accident statistics with the most number of fatalities associated with plane crashes during takeoff.

Cruise

While statistically the safest phase of flight, plane crashes can still occur during the cruise, often due to unforeseen technical or weather issues. According to the most recent data, 11,034 plane crashes occurred during this step. Most plane crashes during the maneuvering and cruise stages tend to have a higher fatality rate.

Approach

During the approach, pilots must navigate various factors such as altitude, speed, and external conditions to reach the runway safely. According to the most recent data, there have been 8,077 air crashes during this step.

Where Do Most Air Crashes Occur?

Most plane crashes in the U.S occur near airports during the critical phases. These phases involve complex maneuvers and have a higher accident rate due to the proximity to the ground and other obstacles, increasing the likelihood of plane crashes. Small airports and rural areas can also be common sites for air crashes, especially for general aviation and private aircraft, due to varying levels of airport infrastructure and air traffic control.

Statistically, certain states with higher air traffic volumes, such as California, Texas, and Florida, report more aviation incidents. This correlation is largely due to the airlines’ flight numbers and the density of airports in these regions. In remote areas around Alaska, the rate of air crashes is also notably higher, with most crashes occurring in Anchorage.

What are Hull Losses?

Hull losses are air crashes in which aircraft are damaged beyond repair. The term, hull losses, is primarily used in the context of insurance and aviation safety statistics related to air travel, where it signifies a severe plane crash with significant damage to the aircraft structure. Hull losses do not necessarily imply a fatal crash; the defining factor is the damage to the aircraft.

Determining hull losses involves a similar process as determining a ‘totalled car’, with the costs of repairs relative to the aircraft’s value. If repairing the aircraft costs more than its value, the aircraft is considered a total loss. This is similar to determining a car that is ‘totaled.’

Hull loss classifications help airlines, insurance companies, and safety analysts categorize and evaluate most crashes regarding economic impact and severity. Hull losses are significant indicators in the aviation industry, as they often lead to in-depth investigations aimed at preventing similar air crashes in the future.

What Causes Commercial Air Crashes?

Pilot Error

Those air traveling are concerned about U.S. airline safety measures, often citing pilot errors and ineffective pilot training programs, flight operations, and consistent safety issues. Although major carriers like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Eagle operate under strict FAA guidelines, media coverage of the many crashes and airline incidents causes fear since with most plane crashes recently have occurred due to pilot error or ineffective pilot training, airplane maintenance issues, and lack of transparency around satellite tracking and flight monitoring.

Pilot errors are frequently cited concerns, which also continue to cause most plane crashes despite advancements in technology. Those air traveling worry that inadequate pilot training and reliance on autopilot may contribute to delayed reactions during air travel. Even with mandatory pilot training programs, recurring pilot errors highlight the need for stronger pilot training and real-time tragedy evaluations.

The effectiveness of pilot training varies across U.S. airlines and other airlines around the world, leading to inconsistencies in how well pilots respond under pressure. Some airlines invest heavily in recurrent pilot training, while others meet only the minimum required standards. Until consumers see a reduction in preventable incidents and fewer reports of pilot error, doubts surrounding the reliability of U.S. airline safety standards are likely to persist.

Errors by Cockpit Management and Crew Members

Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) ensures safety and efficiency in operating larger aircraft with multiple crew members. This practice involves clearly allocating cockpit duties and ensuring that each pilot understands their responsibilities. Effective CRM also emphasizes the importance of open communication among crew members, encouraging pilots to voice concerns if they notice anything amiss or unsafe in the cockpit. Airlines invest significant time in training their pilots in CRM, recognizing its critical role in preventing accidents. A lapse in proper CRM practices can lead to air crashes, highlighting its importance in aviation safety.

Air Traffic Controller Negligence

Air traffic controllers are crucial to maintaining aviation safety. They are responsible for keeping airplanes safely separated. They provide pilots with essential information, such as flight headings and assigned altitudes. However, if they provide incorrect information or fail to ensure adequate separation between flights, many crashes will occur. Data and communication transcripts are only retained for a limited time following an incident. Therefore, requesting and securing this information after a collision occurs promptly is vital.

Aircraft Design Defects and Engine Failure

Design defects and engine failure are critical issues in airline safety, often linked to mechanical malfunction, poor maintenance, or flawed engineering standards. A design defect happens when a structural or system flaw makes an aircraft inherently unsafe, even if no pilot errors exist. This can result in engine failure, in-flight emergency situations, or catastrophic aviation accidents. High-profile cases involving major carriers like American Airlines or Delta Air Lines have raised concerns about aircraft design, especially when combined with pilot error or delayed flight data monitoring. Ensuring that all aircraft meet modern safety measures is essential to preventing fatal events and most plane crashes.

Improper Maintenance

Inadequate maintenance is a major contributor to aviation accidents and undermines overall airline safety. Failure to follow proper aircraft maintenance protocols can lead to serious issues like engine failure, faulty flight operations, or inoperable safety systems. Even top carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines must adhere strictly to FAA standards to avoid risks tied to deferred repairs, improper inspections, or overlooked mechanical wear. Inadequate maintenance not only increases the chance of in-flight emergency situations but also exposes occupants to preventable danger, especially when combined with pilot error or outdated safety measures.

Aviation Safety Standards

Aviation safety standards ensure that airlines take adequate safety measures to maintain their safety record. They monitor maintenance, aircraft design, flight operations, and pilot error risks. This ensures all major airlines operate within strict safety guidelines.

The disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 in 2014 prompted a significant increase in aviation industry regulations, including better satellite tracking and improved training for crew members during forced landing and other emergency situations.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO): This establishes global aviation safety standards.

Aviation Safety Network: The Aviation Safety Network (ASN) is a valuable resource for aviation safety data, providing detailed information about aviation accidents, incidents, and safety issues.

Federal Aviation Administration: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a key agency within the United States Department of Transportation, is tasked with regulating and overseeing all civil activities in the U.S.

How Do You Know If You Have an Aviation Accident Claim?

You may have a claim if you have suffered losses or injuries in an aviation accident. Identifying the responsible parties—whether an airline, a manufacturer, or another entity. A skilled Chicago plane crash attorney can help victims understand their rights and the legal pathways available for seeking compensation.

Chicago Aviation Accident Attorneys

At Curcio & Casciato, our Chicago aviation accident attorneys are dedicated to representing clients affected by aviation accidents. With comprehensive knowledge of aviation law and a commitment to client advocacy, our Chicago personal injury lawyers strive to secure the compensation and justice our clients deserve. Whether dealing with complex litigation against major airlines or seeking accountability for regulatory failures, our firm provides expert legal representation tailored to the unique aspects of aviation-related claims.