Despite a recent string of high-profile aviation incidents that might make you think twice about flying, 2025 is actually on track for fewer fatal aviation accidents compared to previous years. This is particularly relevant for air cargo companies, air freight carriers, and air freight shipping companies, which rely on aviation safety to ensure reliable and efficient transport of goods.
The Discrepancy: Headlines vs. Data
It’s understandable to feel uneasy about air travel, given the recent news. However, data from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) tells a different story:
- So far in 2025, there have been 13 fatal U.S. aviation accidents.
- In contrast, the same January–February period saw:
- 31 in 2024
- 28 in 2023
- 33 in 2022
- 39 in 2021
(Source: NTSB – Table shows ALL incidents, not just fatal ones.)
Understanding the Data and Its Impact on Air Freight
These figures encompass all U.S. civil aviation, from small private planes to commercial airliners. The data also includes Alaska, where challenging flying conditions are more common.
For air cargo freight companies and air cargo shipping companies, this data reinforces the fact that air transport remains one of the safest and most efficient shipping methods. While incidents involving general aviation (such as small private planes) may occur more frequently, commercial air freight transport and air freight services continue to operate with stringent safety measures.
Commercial Flight Crashes Are Still Exceptionally Rare
It is crucial to differentiate between general aviation (small planes, private jets) and commercial airline accidents. Small plane crashes happen fairly often, but before this year, there hadn’t been a single commercial plane accident resulting in death since 2009. When two of them happen within a couple of weeks of each other, that naturally attracts media attention.
For businesses relying on air freight services, this means confidence in air freight shipping remains strong. Whether moving time-sensitive materials, medical supplies, or high-value goods, air freight shipping companies continue to provide safe and dependable logistics solutions.
Lessons from History: Aviation Safety Advancements
It’s also worth noting two high-profile incidents from 2009. One was the Colgan Air Flight crash on February 12. The other occurred just a few weeks prior when pilots Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and Jeffery Skiles successfully landed on the Hudson River. These incidents led to significant advancements in training, technology, and safety protocols, further improving air transport reliability.
The Future of Safe and Efficient Air Cargo Transportation
With ongoing improvements in technology, stricter safety regulations, and enhanced pilot training, air cargo companies and air freight carriers continue to ensure that aviation remains a safe and trusted mode of transportation. As businesses look for fast and secure ways to move goods, the continued safety of air freight transport makes it a leading choice for global logistics.
Whether you need air cargo freight company services for international shipments or air freight services for domestic logistics, the industry remains resilient, efficient, and – most importantly – safe.
