What Causes an Airplane Crash?
Common causes of airplane accidents in history.
Flying on an airplane is one of the safest traveling methods we have available. Compared to cars, airplanes are involved in significantly less accidents. Unfortunately, an airplane accident’s consequences are far more severe than those of a car accident. Car and airplane accidents share similar causes, most commonly human errors cause these types of incidents. A defective product or part in a car or an airplane could also cause a crash, just as a distracted driver or a pilot. If you’re a nervous flier and wish to learn more about what causes an airplane accident, these are some of the most common causes of previous aviation crashes.
Human Errors and Distractions
According to aviation accident attorneys Panish Shea & Boyle, many commercial plane accidents in history have been caused by human errors. Errors made by product manufacturers, pilots, or air controllers could all result in an unfortunate accident. Distractions could also cause an accident, just like a distracted driver is dangerous on the road, a distracted pilot could also cause an airplane crash. A private plane in Colorado crashed when the pilot was taking a selfie. Pilots have the same responsibility as motor vehicle drivers to stay alert and avoid any distractions that could put lives in danger.
Mechanical Malfunction or a Defective Part
Some aviation accidents can also be caused by a defective product or part in an airplane or a mechanical malfunction. An example of a defective part causing an accident is the Boeing 737 accident, where two Boeing 737 Max jets malfunctioned, and the plane went down. A defective software system in this type of jet caused the nose of the plane to turn sharply down midflight. International airlines have a duty to inspect their aircrafts before every flight and make sure that they are safe to fly. Failure to do so could result in liability in case of an accident. Both Boeing and the FAA are facing lawsuits from those affected by these accidents.
Poorly Desined Runways
Poorly designed runways or hazardous runways could also lead to an aviation accident. Runways are designed depending on the geography of the area and the space that is available to land in. Some spaces are too small and there may be several runways squeezed onto a tight area, making it harder for a large aircraft or an unskilled pilot to land safely. Other runways may be surrounded by mountains or near a desert and the weather conditions on each area could pose a risk for pilots landing there.
Weather Conditions
A study by the National Transportation Safety Board shows that more than two-thirds of all weather-related airplane accidents have been fatal. Extreme weather conditions such as fog reduce a pilot’s visibility, making it difficult for them to take off or land safely, or to spot other airplanes on the runway or flying near them. This effect on a pilot’s visibility could result in a serious accident. This is one of the reasons why when you are traveling on a commercial plane and the pilot is taking off or landing, the pilot may stall or take more time on the ground or in the air, they are waiting for the weather to improve so they can land or take off safely.
Although there are many reasons why an aviation accident could occur, it is highly unlikely that you will suffer an airplane accident. Multiple studies show that they are one of the safest methods of transportation. The next time you’re boarding a plane and feel nervous about your flight, keep these studies in mind to ease your nerves. Pilots undergo thousands of hours of training before they start to work, not only this but airlines and product manufacturers also work to ensure the passengers’ and everyone’s safety during a flight.
About the Creator
Keep reading
More stories from Mariela Corella and writers in Wander and other communities.
5 Questions We’ve All Had on an Airplane
What happens if there’s an accident and I’m sitting on the emergency exit row? Sitting on the emergency exit row comes with its advantages and responsibilities. You will have more leg room to travel comfortably, but you will also be responsible for opening the emergency exits if needed. Some people don’t take this responsibility seriously, if they fail to open the exits on time, they risk their own lives and others on the plane. Airplane accident attorneys, Panish, Shea & Boyle, explain that if a lawsuit is filed after a plane accident, and you are found to be negligent of your duties as an emergency exit seat occupant, then you may be liable for the injuries your negligence caused others. Be mindful of the responsibility of seating in the emergency exit, if you feel like you aren’t able act in case of an emergency, ask the flight attendant if you can change your seat. Consider these responsibilities before booking a flight on the emergency exit row.
By Mariela Corella4 years ago in Wander
Was I a Model in Japan?
During my time in Nagoya I worked and lived at the strangely famous hostel and café Nagonoya. With its chequered floors and florescent lighting it felt quite dated, but I think that was supposed to be part of the charm. The dorms were always fully booked on weekends with domestic tourists and there was always a buzz in the downstairs café. Camera crews were constantly in and out of the place interviewing the Japanese staff members who worked the café. I think it had something to do with the egg sandwiches. At least that was what was on most of the merchandise, except for that one dishcloth with the owner’s face on it. Was I being employed by a local celebrity?
By Susanna Kiernan21 days ago in Wander
Chitwan National Park: A Wildlife Paradise of Nepal
Chitwan National Park in Nepal is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It features a lot of different environments, a lot of different animals, and a long history of protecting nature. This treasure from Nepal was created in 1973 and is legitimately referred to as the nation's first national park.
By Nepal Trek Adventures & Expedition Pvt. Ltda day ago in Wander
Spectating
I can't imagine dying like this, in a place like this; on a cold, dirty pavement with rush hour traffic screaming by and a crowd looking on while paramedics struggle to find space to move. Who could? Deep down we all think there should be a reason, a moment of clarity... or a family presence, at least. For this man, this boy, the rail thin woman lighting a cigarette in a faux fur jacket will have to do - she's been here since the start, her eyes tracking the movement of my shoulders as we fight to keep him on the right side of the line.
By S. A. Crawford7 days ago in Fiction
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.