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Delta Air Lines safety rating

Delta Air Lines scores 8.9 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
8.9/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
3
Fleet size
900
Years operating
101

Why nervous flyers ask about Delta Air Lines

Delta has not had a fatal passenger accident since DL1141 in 1988 — nearly four decades clean. Its fleet skews older but undergoes some of the most rigorous maintenance programs in US aviation.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1925 (101 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 900 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 14.2 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 38.0 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 3
  • Years since last fatal incident: 38
  • Average pilot command hours: 11,000
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · FAA Part 121
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 2

How it compares

A safety rating of 8.9 places Delta Air Lines in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

Delta Air Lines has not had a fatal passenger incident in over 38 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 Delta Air Lines safe to fly?
Yes. Delta Air Lines scores 8.9/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has had 3 fatal jet-era incidents, with the last 38 years ago. Pilot command hours average 11,000, and the airline holds IOSA certified · FAA Part 121 certifications.
When was Delta Air Lines founded?
Delta Air Lines was founded in 1925 and has been operating for 101 years. It currently flies a fleet of 900 aircraft with an average age of 14.2 years.
How does Delta Air Lines's safety record compare to other airlines?
Delta Air Lines's safety rating of 8.9 places it in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 38.0 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 3 fatal incidents.
How old is Delta Air Lines's fleet?
Delta Air Lines's fleet averages 14.2 years old. While older than the global average, all commercial aircraft must pass identical inspection cycles regardless of age.
How many incidents has Delta Air Lines had recently?
Delta Air Lines 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.