Decline in Air Travel Confidence Amid Series of High-Profile Crashes

In February 2025, air travel safety in the United States became a major point of concern, following a string of high-profile plane crashes involving American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and other carriers. These incidents, which involved both commercial and regional flights, have significantly impacted public confidence in the safety of air travel.

A recent poll by AP-NORC revealed a sharp decline in the number of Americans who believe air travel is safe, with only 64% of respondents expressing confidence in flying. This marks a noticeable drop from the previous year, where 71% of the public felt secure about traveling by air. The decline in trust has raised alarms within the aviation industry, which had been steadily recovering from the pandemic’s disruptions.

Experts attribute the loss of confidence to the heightened media coverage of these crashes, combined with broader concerns about the safety of air traffic control systems, aircraft maintenance, and pilot training. While air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation, the series of crashes has caused widespread anxiety among passengers, with many now questioning whether enough is being done to ensure their safety.

In response to the concerns, airline officials and safety regulators are working to reassure the public, emphasizing the strict safety protocols in place and ongoing efforts to improve aviation systems. However, the shift in public perception highlights the challenges the aviation industry faces as it seeks to restore passenger trust and maintain steady growth in the years ahead.