Good afternoon from the American Airlines Flagship lounge where I’m trying not to make any Grey Poupon jokes.
Why, Yes I do have Grey Poupon. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xomArI4aJ0
More importantly, I’m happy to fly today (and you should be happy to fly to).
Firstly, I would direct you to https://www.aopa.org/About-AOPA/Statistical-Reference-Guide/General-Aviation-Safety-Record-Current-and-Historic.aspx which gives Fatal Accident losses per year.
It also gives the data on losses compared to other modes of transportation:
Source: AOPA
When disasters, incidents and crashes hit the presses, it’s important to remember for that one loss, many other flights took off and landed safely that day. And the day after. And the day after that.
Flying itself is a safe form of transportation due to the systems in place, and the people who execute those systems… even if you’re on a metal tube going through the air, powered with two to four engines with wings full of fuel.
So, yes – its safe to fly. But that doesn’t excuse you from missing the safety briefing, knowing where the emergency exits are on a plane (count the rows forward and back from your seat to the exit) and keeping ones wits about you.
Keep safe out there!
Doesn’t matter how many times I’ve flown or how many times I’ve been on the same plane, I always pay attention to the safety briefing. I always count the number of rows to the two nearest exits (in the event my primary exit is blocked). I always make sure I know how to put on the life vest and O2 mask. Because I want it to be second nature if there is an emergency landing and evac.