Many carriers follow international standards
I’m terrified to fly – mostly because of crashing. I don’t need to hear how safe it is. I can read a stat sheet. I don’t speed, I wear a seat belt, don’t smoke, etc. I’m a safe person. Given that flying is out of my control, are there airlines that are generally “safer” perhaps because they have better service procedures? I’m guessing every airline is expected to perform minimum maintenance but are there airlines that are known for not cutting corners or go above and beyond? Thank you.
– Dave, Ohio
Let’s start with your comment about how safe it is. You are right: Flying is the safest form of public transportation. And you’ve correctly identified the underlying issue: control.
Not being in control is very often the root of a person’s fear of flying. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce that anxiety. There are counselors that can help you talk your way through your concerns. Look on the internet for a list of people you can talk to.
One of the most effective things you can do is talk to the pilots when boarding. This will put a face to the voice you hear on the PA system. We welcome visitors to the flight deck, especially if they are anxious about the flight. The men and women in the pilot seats have demonstrated their skills to evaluators many, many times and are highly skilled aviators. You are in good hands.
You ask if there are airlines that have committed to a higher level of standards than the FAA regulations. Yes, airlines that have passed an International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit are operating to an internationally recognized higher standard. An IOSA audit includes evaluation of an operator on their organizational structure, flight operations and training, maintenance, cabin safety, ground handling, security, and dispatch.
A list of IOSA-registered airlines can be found on the IATA website, which has certified the following U.S.-flagged airlines: Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Sun Country and United. However, the website noted that renewal audits for Delta and United could not be completed on time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who puts the oxygen masks back in their stowed position after a plane loses pressure and oxygen masks deploy? Is there a standard/certification process to make sure it’s done properly or do they “just shove ‘em back in there” and close the door? – Jon, Delaware
If the masks are used in the event of an passenger oxygen mask deployment, the oxygen generator in each passenger service unit must be replaced.
A maintenance technician replaces them, repacks the masks and closes the door following the manufacturers job task card instructions.
The maintenance record is then signed by a licensed mechanic in the U.S. – or the overseas equivalent, attesting that the procedure has been done in accordance with the instructions.