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American Airlines safety rating

American Airlines scores 8.3 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
8.3/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
5
Fleet size
950
Years operating
96

Why nervous flyers ask about American Airlines

American is the world's largest airline by fleet size. Despite scale, it has gone nearly 25 years without a fatal passenger incident.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1930 (96 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 950 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 11.6 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 42.0 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 5
  • Years since last fatal incident: 24
  • Average pilot command hours: 10,500
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · FAA Part 121
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 3

How it compares

A safety rating of 8.3 places American Airlines in the solid mid-tier. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

American Airlines has not had a fatal passenger incident in over 24 years. Modern operating procedures, equipment and training are very different from when those older events occurred.

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Data accuracy: Figures above are compiled from publicly reported sources including the Aviation Safety Network, ICAO, EASA, FAA and airline annual reports. Numbers are refreshed periodically and may lag recent events by several months. For authoritative accident-investigation conclusions, consult the relevant national investigation board (NTSB, BEA, AAIB, JTSB, TSB Canada, etc).

Frequently asked questions

Is American Airlines safe to fly?
Yes. American Airlines scores 8.3/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has had 5 fatal jet-era incidents, with the last 24 years ago. Pilot command hours average 10,500, and the airline holds IOSA certified · FAA Part 121 certifications.
When was American Airlines founded?
American Airlines was founded in 1930 and has been operating for 96 years. It currently flies a fleet of 950 aircraft with an average age of 11.6 years.
How does American Airlines's safety record compare to other airlines?
American Airlines's safety rating of 8.3 places it in the solid mid-tier. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 42.0 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 5 fatal incidents.
How old is American Airlines's fleet?
American Airlines's fleet averages 11.6 years old. This is around the global average; older aircraft are still extremely well-maintained under strict regulatory inspection cycles.
How many incidents has American Airlines had recently?
American Airlines has reported 3 non-fatal operational incidents in the last 5 years. Note that "incident" in aviation often means minor events like engine warnings or runway excursions — most never reach passenger awareness. The fatal-accident count remains a more meaningful safety signal.