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Research by Harvard University demonstrates that flying in the US, Europe, and Australia is much (much) safer than driving a car. Your chances of being in an accident during a flight are one in 1.2 million, and the chances of that accident being fatal are one in 11 million! Your odds of dying in a car crash are one in 5,000.
Today we interview an American Airlines pilot who gives us the inside story of what happens in the cockpit of today’s aircraft and the air traffic control centers that keep air travels safe. Did you know that a modern two-engine commercial jet aircraft can fly just fine even if one of the engines conks out? Or how about if both engines fail? The plane can simply turn into a giant glider, and unless you are far out at sea, a skilled pilot can take you to a safe landing anyways, gliding even 100 miles before landing!
According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 2022 global safety report, last year, the aviation industry saw a 9.8% decrease in accidents in comparison with 2020. Deaths resulting from aircraft accidents dropped 66%. This is despite an 11% increase in total scheduled flights! The ICAO attributes the improvements to the safety commitments shared across the industry.
To discuss the miraculous flight system the FAA and the airlines have created, we are joined by Steve Marcum, an American Airlines Boeing 737 international captain based in Chicago. Steve began civilian flight training in 1980 while serving in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. Over the next 10 years, he was able to earn his Private, Instrument, Commercial, and Flight Instructor ratings, along with a degree in Aviation from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. This led to his first Commercial Airline job with Midway Commuter out of Chicago Midway in 1989. Over the next 32 years, he flew for American Eagle, Trans World Airlines TWA, American Airlines, and NetJets.
To learn why commercial aviation has become safer and safer over the years, join us as we have a fascinating discussion with Captain Marcum. You will never fear flying again!
Reference relevant to this program:
“An Inside Look at the Amazing Federal Aviation Administration’s Command Center,” by Dr. Jay Lehr and Tom Harris
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