The skies over the United States, once symbols of efficiency and convenience, now carry an undercurrent of anxiety. After a series of high-profile airplane incidents and crashes in recent months, travelers are questioning whether flying is as safe as it once seemed.
From emergency landings to mechanical failures and near-catastrophic accidents, each new headline fuels growing fears about the reliability of air travel. Experts say that while these incidents are concerning, flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation. Majority of the students’ of Christopher Newport University expressed discomfort or outright fear about boarding a flight in the U.S. right now.
In just the past few weeks, several major airlines have faced mechanical failures mid-flight, forcing emergency landings, along with mid-air collisions and catastrophic crashes. The most alarming of these incidents involved an American Eagle en route from Wichita, Kansas (ICT), to Washington, D.C. (DCA), The aircraft, almost on the runway, collided with a military army black hawk helicopter causing both aircrafts to plunge into the icy Potomac River, killing everyone in the aircraft, ABC News stated.
Other recent incidents—including engine failures and landing gear malfunctions—have added to a growing sense of unease. While airline executives and government officials insist that flying remains one of the safest ways to travel, many passengers aren’t convinced.
Students I spoke with described feeling uneasy about airline safety protocols, with some saying they would opt for train or car travel instead. “I’m slightly more shaken since the recent accidents,” senior Corynne Rittner said.
Despite reassurances from officials, the decision to book a flight now feels different for many Americans. “I’m so comfortable with flying, but obviously I’ll be a little more skeptical with the recent events,” sophomore Adelaide Langford said. Beyond the emotional response, the discussion on aviation safety has turned to specific concerns about the industry.
“My biggest concern is [what] happens before you get on the plane,” junior Philip Sherrill said. Whether it’s mechanical issues, air traffic control errors, or TSA safety check concerns, different people prioritize different risks when considering their safety in the skies.
Media coverage also plays a significant role in shaping public perception. Freshman Katie Scharlat shared her thoughts, saying that she thinks the media overplays travel safety concerns, especially when it comes to influential people in power who take advantage of media access and tragic situations in order to gain the public’s trust. “They almost like creating a fear within the public,” she said.
Some believe that increased transparency from airlines, stricter FAA oversight and technological advancements could help rebuild confidence. “Policies coming out increasing plane safety, the plane companies recognizing and assuring customers that they are investigating and trying to fix issues would make me feel safer,” junior Anna Harrington said. Others emphasize the importance of emotional healing and time, as the nation processes the recent losses.
Despite everything, many still argue that flying remains the safest way to travel compared to cars, trains or buses. Statistically, air travel remains incredibly secure, but in times of uncertainty, perception can be just as powerful as reality.
Whether through improved transparency, stricter regulations or enhanced pilot training, the industry must prove that safety remains its top priority; because while flying may be the safest mode of travel, feeling safe is just as important as being safe.
