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Air Canada safety rating

Air Canada scores 8.6 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
8.6/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
2
Fleet size
400
Years operating
89

Why nervous flyers ask about Air Canada

Air Canada has not had a fatal passenger incident since the AC797 in-flight fire at Cincinnati in 1983 (43 years ago). It has, however, had several non-fatal incidents in the last decade — most notably AC624's hard landing at Halifax in 2015 and the AC759 near-miss at San Francisco in 2017, both of which led to investigations and procedural changes. Its long-haul operation remains one of North America's largest with training standards comparable to European flag carriers.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1937 (89 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 400 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 13.4 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 14.5 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 2
  • Years since last fatal incident: 43
  • Average pilot command hours: 11,500
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · Transport Canada
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 2

How it compares

A safety rating of 8.6 places Air Canada in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

Air Canada has not had a fatal passenger incident in over 43 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 Air Canada safe to fly?
Yes. Air Canada scores 8.6/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has had 2 fatal jet-era incidents, with the last 43 years ago. Pilot command hours average 11,500, and the airline holds IOSA certified · Transport Canada certifications.
When was Air Canada founded?
Air Canada was founded in 1937 and has been operating for 89 years. It currently flies a fleet of 400 aircraft with an average age of 13.4 years.
How does Air Canada's safety record compare to other airlines?
Air Canada's safety rating of 8.6 places it in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 14.5 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 2 fatal incidents.
How old is Air Canada's fleet?
Air Canada's fleet averages 13.4 years old. While older than the global average, all commercial aircraft must pass identical inspection cycles regardless of age.
How many incidents has Air Canada had recently?
Air Canada has reported 2 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.