Emirates safety rating
Emirates scores 9.2 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.
Why nervous flyers ask about Emirates
Emirates operates one of the youngest wide-body fleets in the world, averaging just over 7 years old. In nearly 40 years of operations the airline has never had a passenger fatality. Its only hull loss was EK521 at Dubai in 2016, where all 300 passengers and crew evacuated safely from a runway accident; one firefighter was killed in the subsequent response.
By the numbers
- Founded: 1985 (41 years operating)
- Fleet size: 260 aircraft
- Average fleet age: 7.4 years
- Cumulative flights flown: 4.6 million
- Fatal accidents (jet era): 0
- Years since last fatal incident: never had one
- Average pilot command hours: 9,000
- Certifications: IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings
- Incidents in the last 5 years: 1
How it compares
A safety rating of 9.2 places Emirates in the top tier worldwide. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.
What this means for you
Emirates has never had a fatal jet-era passenger incident. That's the best possible outcome — there is nothing in the safety record to be alarmed about.
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).