Flight Safety Foundation Sounds Alarm Over Increasing Aviation Safety Compliance Risks

Increasing Aviation Safety Compliance Risks: A Call to Action

The Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) recently published its 2024 Safety Report, which has raised significant alarms regarding aviation safety. The report highlights the worrying trend of decreased adherence to internationally recognized standards, regulations, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) within the aviation sector.

In 2024 alone, over 5 billion passengers traveled securely by air; however, a series of accidents and serious incidents reported late last year and in early 2025 have unveiled critical vulnerabilities in safety protocols. Such incidents, though infrequent, emphasize the urgent need for the entire industry to remain vigilant. Dr. Hassan Shahidi, President and CEO of the Flight Safety Foundation, stated, "We cannot allow complacency to creep into operations. Safety standards have evolved for a reason, and adherence to them isn't optional — it's essential."

Despite the underlying complexities of aviation safety, the FSF's report underscores that compliance is not merely a checkbox; it is a fundamental necessity in safeguarding lives. Specifically, it calls for a renewed industry commitment to prioritizing safety fundamentals. Dr. Shahidi expressed concern, stating, "Aviation's safety net is fraying at the edges. It's time for the entire industry to double down on compliance, discipline, and proactive risk management to restore public confidence and protect lives."

The report's findings are sobering: in 2024, there were 132 accidents involving various types of airliners, with 15 of those resulting in fatalities. This data draws on the Foundation's Aviation Safety Network (ASN) database, which provides extensive insights into accident categories, phases of flight, and operational types. The alarming statistics and narratives surrounding these incidents illustrate the dire need for heightened safety measures.

As part of its proactive approach, the FSF will also conduct a webinar on March 12 to further discuss the 2024 results and address the safety challenges that lie ahead in 2025 and beyond. Industry professionals and stakeholders are encouraged to participate and engage in dialogue aimed at bolstering aviation safety measures as the sector navigates these challenges. More details are available on the FSF's events page on their website.

The 2024 Safety Report serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in the aviation industry, including regulators, air navigation service providers, airports, air operators, and manufacturers. By reinforcing compliance, the industry can begin to rebuild its resilient safety culture, thus reducing risk factors associated with aviation operations. The report has made it clear that while accidents are rare, their consequences can be devastating.

As the aviation industry adapts to new challenges and environments, the Flight Safety Foundation's emphasis on compliance and proactive risk assessment becomes ever more pertinent. Only through rigorous adherence to safety protocols can the industry aim for the highest standards of safety and restore public confidence. The safety of air travel depends on the collective efforts of each individual involved in maintaining these standards.

For further details and access to the interactive ASN dashboards, refer to the Flight Safety Foundation's website, where the 2024 Safety Report is published. Let's prioritize safety, renew our commitment, and work together to secure the skies for future generations.