Flight Training: Fatality Rates Are Improving

A new study shows an improved safety record has resulted from a wide range of industry changes.

Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at 08:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Flight training operations experienced a nearly 50% reduction in the fatal accident rate between 2000 and 2019, indicating significant safety improvements over the two decades.
This improved safety is attributed to sustained industry efforts, the adoption of new technologies like angle of attack indicators and modern avionics, changes in FAA policy, and a renewed emphasis on stall recovery and risk management.
The most lethal accident scenarios identified were in-flight loss of control, mid-air collisions, and controlled flight into terrain, with a specific recommendation for instructors to choose less congested altitudes (e.g., 2,700 feet msl) to mitigate mid-air collision risks.

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There’s good news on the safety of flight training operations, according to a study from the AOPA Air Safety Institute and Liberty University’s School of Aeronautics. The two recently released a report based on their study showing, in part, a nearly 50-percent reduction in the fatal accident rate for the 20 years beginning in 2000 and concluding with 2019.

The improvements some via “sustained efforts” throughout the flight-training industry, according to the executive summary, leading to a nearly 50-percent reduction in fatal accidents over the period.