Ex-pilot shares reason there are so many plane crashes happening at the moment
ArchiveFirst published March 11, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
More Accidents in 2025
So far in 2025, 120 aircraft accidents have occurred, including 22 fatal crashes, according to the NTSB. Recent incidents include a mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., killing 67 people, a medical plane crash in Philadelphia, and a Delta flight flipping upon landing in Toronto.
Expert Warnings
Aviation expert Shawn Pruchnicki warns safety is declining. “The safety buffer that took decades to build has steadily eroded,” he said. He noted more near-misses, adding, “Any distance noted in feet counts as within a hair’s breadth of disaster!”
Causes of the Problem
Pruchnicki points to a shortage of air traffic controllers and inexperienced pilots. “If they make a mistake, someone could die,” he warned, highlighting the pressure controllers face. Airlines are also hiring less experienced pilots.
Need for Action
Pruchnicki urges investment in technology and hiring more controllers. “The safety buffer is shrinking, and we need to act now,” he said. Public confidence in flying has dropped, with only 64% of Americans believing it is safe, down from 71% last year.
