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Qantas safety rating

Qantas scores 9.6 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
9.6/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
0
Fleet size
126
Years operating
106

Why nervous flyers ask about Qantas

Qantas has not had a single fatal jet accident in over 70 years of operations — a record unmatched by any major carrier. Founded in the Australian outback in 1920, its safety culture is considered the industry benchmark.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1920 (106 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 126 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 10.8 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 9.1 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 0
  • Years since last fatal incident: never had one
  • Average pilot command hours: 15,000
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 0

How it compares

A safety rating of 9.6 places Qantas in the top tier worldwide. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

Qantas 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.

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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 Qantas safe to fly?
Yes. Qantas scores 9.6/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has never had a fatal jet-era passenger incident. Pilot command hours average 15,000, and the airline holds IOSA certified · 7-star AirlineRatings certifications.
When was Qantas founded?
Qantas was founded in 1920 and has been operating for 106 years. It currently flies a fleet of 126 aircraft with an average age of 10.8 years.
How does Qantas's safety record compare to other airlines?
Qantas's safety rating of 9.6 places it in the top tier worldwide. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 9.1 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 0 fatal incidents.
How old is Qantas's fleet?
Qantas's fleet averages 10.8 years old. This is around the global average; older aircraft are still extremely well-maintained under strict regulatory inspection cycles.
How many incidents has Qantas had recently?
Qantas has reported 0 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.