The downward slide in GA accidents and fatalities hit an updraft in 2003 but a spokesman for the AOPA Air Safety foundation says it’s not much to worry about. The total number of GA accidents rose 2.5 percent in 2003 over the previous year while flight hours increased .8 percent, according to the annual Nall Report prepared by the foundation. However, in the past 10 years, the accident rate per 100,000 flight hours has declined 25.3 percent. “The general direction is good,” said foundation spokesman Bruce Landsberg. “I think we’ll continue to make progress as pilots get smarter. But it doesn’t come without constant effort and vigilance.” Of the accidents recorded in 2003, 20.6 percent were fatal and 75.9 percent were pilot-related. Takeoffs and landings continue to be the most dangerous phases of flight with more than half of all accidents occurring then.
GA Accidents Up, Trend Still Down
Key Takeaways:
- Despite a 2.5% increase in General Aviation (GA) accidents in 2003 (with only a 0.8% rise in flight hours), the accident rate per 100,000 flight hours has significantly declined by 25.3% over the past decade, indicating a positive long-term trend.
- In 2003, 75.9% of GA accidents were pilot-related and 20.6% were fatal, as detailed in the Nall Report.
- Takeoffs and landings continue to be the most hazardous phases of flight, accounting for over half of all GA accidents.
- An AOPA Air Safety Foundation spokesman expressed optimism about ongoing progress in GA safety, emphasizing the need for constant pilot effort and vigilance.
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