It has become more common than ever for people to use passenger planes to travel. Still, many plane passengers worry about the unfortunate idea of a crash. This is the case despite how safe airlines have become and the fact that there are so few crashes compared to the number of flights taken. Of course, others may want to know the most common reasons for aircraft crashes. For many, this could alleviate some of the stresses of flying.

Pilot error is often called the leading reason planes crash, with or without passengers

There are many reasons for the rare occurrences of passenger planes crashing. However, most studies say that pilot error is the most common. In fact, according to Panish Law, pilot error is the cause of about 53% of all aricraft accidents. However, this number seems to vary a bit.

Of course, pilot error when it comes to the crashing of passenger planes occurs for many reasons. For starters, it could be because the pilot hasn’t rested enough. The same is true for stress and factors such as distractions. Also, this could be due to a mistake, including misjudging situations just making the wrong call when it comes to flying though stressful situations. Of course, weather conditions can also contribute to pilot error. 

Still, people should remember that these professionals go through intense training. This is also one of the reasons there are so few crashes on a yearly basis when it comes to passenger planes. 

Mechanical issues

Mechanical issues are another common reason for passenger planes crashing. In fact, some reports say this is a significant factor in over 20 percent of all aviation accidents. Of course, commercial airplanes undergo check ups and extensive mainteance on a regular basis. Still, things can always go wrong, just as with cars. Regarding the issues, the biggest culprit comes from engine malfunctions. 

Luckily, many modern airplanes have backup engines. Some have two engines, but others can have as many as four. In most cases, this is a safety precaution. As with the training of pilots, this is another reason there isn’t a ton of talk about passenger plane crashes. 

Weather conditons can cause passenger planes to crash

Weather conditions are another common reason for plane crashes. Of course, this was mentioned alongside pilot error, but it needs its own section. Harsh weather makes it hard for the pilot to make sound judgment calls. It can also make it more difficult for the aircraft to move through the air while maintaining safety. Reports say weather conditions are responsible for 11 percent of crashes. 

Still, flying commerically is safer than it has ever been. In fact, studies show passengers are safer in planes than they are in cars. 

For more reading, check out our recent article about how long commercial airplanes last.