The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report on March 9, 2026, showing aviation maintained strong safety performance despite challenges. The all-accident rate stood at 1.32 per million flights—one accident every 759,646 flights—improving from 1.42 in 2024 but exceeding the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27. Among 38.7 million flights, 51 accidents occurred, down from 54 in 37.9 million flights the prior year, though above the five-year average of 44.
Fatal accidents rose to eight from seven in 2024 and the five-year average of six, resulting in 394 onboard fatalities versus 244 previously and 198 on average. Fatality risk increased to 0.17 per million flights from 0.06 in 2024. Major events, including Air India Flight 171 (241 fatalities) and PSA Airlines Flight 5342 (64 fatalities), drove over 77% of losses. IATA Director General Willie Walsh stated, “Flying is the safest form of long-distance travel. Accidents are extremely rare and each one reminds us to be even more focused on continuous improvement through global standards and collaboration guided by safety data.”
The five-year fatal accident rate improved to one per 5.6 million flights (2021-2025) from one per 3.5 million (2012-2016). Regional disparities persisted, with Africa highest despite gains; Middle East and North Africa reported one accident (0.53 rate) and zero fatalities since 2019. GNSS jamming incidents surged 67% from 2023. Runway excursions and landing gear issues dominated, with 16% of accidents tied to airport infrastructure. IATA members achieved a 0.72 accident rate, far below non-members.