Survey indicates 64% of Americans believe flying is safe, down from 71% who said so last year

Summary

A new AP-NORC poll shows that Americans’ confidence in air travel has declined after several fatal plane crashes in 2025.

Only 64% now believe flying is safe, down from 71% last year, while the number of those who feel it is unsafe rose by 12%.

Confidence in pilots, air traffic controllers, and the federal government has also dropped. Recent crashes, including a deadly collision over Washington, D.C., have fueled public concern.

Meanwhile, Trump has begun firing hundreds of FAA employees, raising further safety worries.

  • frezik@midwest.social
    39·
    2 days ago

    The problem is that even if it’s still safe now, these changes cannot help, and it won’t be apparent until planes start crashing.

    The industry also runs on perception of safety more than the reality. If it’s perceived unsafe, then the industry could collapse quickly.