Airlines with the worst safety records for 2025!

airplane coming in for a landing

When it comes to flying, safety is everything. For most of us, stepping onto an airplane comes with an expectation of trust—that every detail, from pilot expertise to engine maintenance, has been meticulously handled. However, as much as the aviation industry has made incredible strides in safety, not all airlines are equal when it comes to track records.

This post unveils the airlines with the worst safety records for 2025, based on factors such as accident rates, fleet age, and safety audit scores. Whether you're a frequent flier or an aviation enthusiast, understanding the safety profile of an airline is essential for making informed travel decisions. While air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation, here's the bottom line on who failed to meet the skies’ highest safety standards this year.

This year with the American Airlines plane crashes, helicopter crashes, and the Delta airplane flipping on its top at a Canadian Airport, many people are on edge. Every day we are seeing on the news a fatal accident with Aircraft carriers, helicopters and private planes. Many more are being discussed in the news than they were last year due to the fact of the major accidents that have happened recently. Plus, all the news on air traffic controllers, airports poor maintenance and so much more, you do end up thinking more and more about the airline's safety record.

United Airlines flight taking off

Methodology: How We Evaluated Safety Records  

Before we jump into the lineup, here’s how these airlines made the list. Each airline’s performance was evaluated using a range of critical safety benchmarks:

• Accident Rates: Total accidents per million flights in the last five years.  

• Fatalities: Number of lives lost due to flight incidents since 2020.  

• Safety Audit Scores: Ratings from reputable aviation organizations such as AirlineRatings.com and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  

• Fleet Age and Maintenance: Average age of an airline’s fleet and the reliability of its maintenance practices.  

• Passenger Feedback: Reports from travelers regarding safety concerns and in-flight experiences.  

The combination of these factors provides a well-rounded view of an airline’s safety management.

The Top 14 Airlines with the Worst Safety Records in 2025  

Here's a closer look at the airlines that have struggled to meet rigorous safety standards. While many of these carriers are household names, they've faced scrutiny due to historical records and recent incidents.

Tara Air

Has been under scrutiny for its safety record, which is often considered one of the worst in the aviation industry. Operating in Nepal's rugged and mountainous regions, the airline faces unique challenges that contribute to its safety concerns. These include:

• Challenging Terrain: Nepal's geography is one of the most difficult in the world for aviation. Many of Tara Air's routes involve flying through narrow valleys, over high peaks, and landing on short, unpaved airstrips.

• Unpredictable Weather: Sudden changes in weather, including fog, strong winds, and heavy rain, make flying in Nepal particularly hazardous. These conditions often lead to poor visibility and increased risks during takeoff and landing.

• Aging Fleet: Tara Air operates small, older aircraft like the Twin Otter, which, while suitable for short takeoffs and landings, may not have the advanced safety features of modern planes.

• Accident History: The airline has been involved in several fatal accidents over the years. For example, in 2016, a Tara Air flight crashed into a mountainside, killing all 23 people on board. More recently, in 2022, another crash resulted in the loss of 22 lives. These incidents have raised serious concerns about the airline's operational safety.

• Lack of Advanced Technology: Many of the airports Tara Air serves lack modern navigation aids, relying instead on visual flight rules (VFR). This increases the risk of accidents, especially in poor weather conditions. This is considered to be on the world's worst airlines.

Pakistan International Airlines 

(PIA) has faced significant scrutiny over its safety record in recent years. While it was once a leading airline in South Asia, its reputation has been marred by a series of incidents and operational challenges. Here are some key factors contributing to its safety concerns:

• Accident History: PIA has experienced several high-profile accidents over the years. Notable incidents include:

  • The 2016 crash of Flight PK-661, which killed all 47 people on board.

  • The 2020 crash of Flight PK-8303 in Karachi, where 97 out of 99 passengers and crew lost their lives. The crash was attributed to pilot error and procedural lapses.

• Pilot Licensing Scandal: In 2020, a major controversy emerged when it was revealed that a significant number of PIA pilots held "dubious" or fake licenses. This revelation led to the grounding of many pilots and raised serious questions about the airline's oversight and regulatory compliance.

• Aging Fleet: PIA has struggled with maintaining a modern fleet. Older aircraft, combined with financial constraints, have made it challenging to ensure consistent maintenance and upgrades.

• Operational and Management Issues: The airline has faced criticism for poor management, lack of accountability, and inefficiencies, which have indirectly impacted safety standards.

• Global Restrictions: Due to safety concerns, PIA has faced bans and restrictions from international aviation authorities. For instance, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) suspended PIA's authorization to operate in Europe in 2020, citing safety deficiencies.

Despite efforts to improve its safety standards and regain trust, PIA continues to face challenges in restoring its reputation. 

Lion Air

An Indonesian airline that has faced significant scrutiny over its safety record, which has been marred by a series of accidents and operational challenges. Here are the key factors contributing to its safety concerns:

• Accident History: Lion Air has been involved in several high-profile accidents, including:

  • The 2018 crash of Flight JT610, a Boeing 737 MAX, which plunged into the Java Sea shortly after takeoff, killing all 189 people on board. This tragic incident was linked to issues with the aircraft's Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) and inadequate pilot training.

  • Other incidents, such as runway overruns and hard landings, have also raised concerns about operational safety.

• Rapid Expansion: Lion Air's aggressive growth strategy has led to a rapid increase in its fleet and routes. While this has made it one of the largest low-cost carriers in Southeast Asia, it has also raised concerns about whether safety standards have kept pace with expansion.

• Pilot Training and Experience: The airline has faced criticism for insufficient pilot training and a lack of experienced crew members. Reports suggest that some accidents were linked to human error and inadequate preparation for emergency situations.

• Maintenance and Oversight: Questions have been raised about the airline's maintenance practices and adherence to international safety standards. Indonesia's aviation industry, in general, has faced challenges with regulatory oversight, which has impacted carriers like Lion Air.

• Global Perception: Due to its safety record, Lion Air has faced bans and restrictions in the past. For example, it was included on the European Union's list of banned airlines until 2016, when improvements were made.

While Lion Air has taken steps to improve its safety standards, including investing in newer aircraft and enhancing training programs, its past incidents continue to affect its reputation. 

SCAT Airlines

A Kazakhstan-based carrier, has faced criticism over its safety record, which has been a concern for passengers and aviation authorities alike. Here are the key points regarding its safety history:

• Accident History: SCAT Airlines has experienced notable accidents, including:

  • The 2013 crash of Flight DV760, a Bombardier CRJ-200, which crashed in heavy fog near Almaty, killing all 21 people on board. The crash was attributed to poor weather conditions and possible pilot error.

  • Other incidents, such as emergency landings and technical malfunctions, have also raised questions about the airline's operational safety.

• Aging Fleet: SCAT Airlines has operated older aircraft models in the past, which has contributed to concerns about maintenance and reliability. While the airline has been modernizing its fleet, the legacy of older planes has impacted its reputation.

• Regulatory Oversight: Kazakhstan's aviation industry has historically faced challenges with regulatory oversight and compliance with international safety standards. SCAT Airlines, as a domestic carrier, has been affected by these broader industry issues.

• EU Blacklist: SCAT Airlines was previously included on the European Union's list of banned airlines due to safety concerns. However, it was removed from the blacklist in 2016 after making improvements to its safety standards and operations.

• Efforts to Improve: In recent years, SCAT Airlines has taken steps to enhance its safety record, including upgrading its fleet, improving pilot training, and adhering to international safety protocols. Despite these efforts, its past incidents continue to influence public perception.

Airplane in flight

Yeti Airlines

A Nepal-based carrier, has faced significant safety challenges due to the unique and hazardous flying conditions in Nepal, as well as its own operational history. Here's an overview of its safety record:

• Accident History: Yeti Airlines has been involved in several accidents over the years, including:

  • The 2008 crash of a Twin Otter aircraft near Lukla, which killed 18 people. The crash was attributed to poor weather conditions during landing.

  • The 2023 crash of a Yeti Airlines ATR 72-500 near Pokhara, which tragically resulted in the deaths of all 72 people on board. This was one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Nepal's history and raised serious concerns about the airline's safety protocols.

• Challenging Operating Environment: Nepal's mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather, and short, high-altitude runways make it one of the most dangerous places in the world for aviation. Yeti Airlines operates in these conditions, which inherently increases the risk of accidents.

• Fleet and Maintenance: Yeti Airlines primarily operates smaller aircraft, such as the ATR 72, which are suitable for short takeoffs and landings. However, questions have been raised about the maintenance and operational oversight of these aircraft.

• Regulatory Oversight: Nepal's aviation industry has faced criticism for inadequate regulatory oversight and failure to meet international safety standards. Yeti Airlines, like other Nepali carriers, has been affected by these systemic issues.

• EU Blacklist: Yeti Airlines, along with all other Nepali carriers, is currently banned from operating in European Union airspace due to safety concerns. This ban reflects broader issues within Nepal's aviation sector.

• Efforts to Improve: Despite its challenges, Yeti Airlines has made efforts to improve safety, including pilot training and fleet upgrades. However, its accident history and the inherent risks of flying in Nepal continue to impact its reputation.

Aeroflot

Russia's national airline and one of the oldest carriers in the world, has a mixed safety record that reflects its long history and the evolution of aviation in Russia. Here's an overview:

• Historical Safety Concerns: During the Soviet era, Aeroflot had a poor safety reputation, with numerous accidents attributed to outdated aircraft, inadequate maintenance, and operational challenges. The airline operated a massive fleet under challenging conditions, including remote and harsh environments, which contributed to its accident rate.

• Modernization and Safety Improvements: Since the 1990s, Aeroflot has undergone significant modernization efforts, including:

  • Transitioning from Soviet-era aircraft to a modern fleet of Airbus, Boeing, and Sukhoi Superjet planes.

  • Implementing international safety standards and improving maintenance practices.

  • Enhancing pilot training and adopting advanced safety protocols.

• Current Safety Standards: Today, Aeroflot is considered a safe airline by global standards. It has received IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification and adheres to international aviation safety regulations. The airline is a member of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes other reputable carriers.

• Accident History in Recent Years: While Aeroflot's safety record has improved, it has experienced some notable incidents in recent years, such as:

  • The 2019 crash-landing of a Sukhoi Superjet 100 at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport, which resulted in 41 fatalities. The incident raised questions about the aircraft's design and emergency response procedures.

  • Other minor incidents, though less frequent, have occurred, reflecting the challenges of operating in diverse conditions.

• Global Perception: Aeroflot's reputation has improved significantly, but its historical safety issues and association with the Soviet era still influence public perception. The airline is now recognized for its modern fleet, professional service, and commitment to safety.

PNG Air

Based in Papua New Guinea, operates in one of the most challenging aviation environments in the world. Here's an overview of its safety record:

• Challenging Operating Conditions: Papua New Guinea's rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and remote airstrips make it one of the most difficult regions for aviation. PNG Air operates in these conditions, which inherently increases the risk of incidents.

• Accident History: PNG Air has experienced several incidents over the years, including:

  • Minor accidents and emergency landings, often attributed to the challenging flying conditions in the region.

  • While the airline has not been involved in major fatal crashes in recent years, the overall aviation sector in Papua New Guinea has faced safety concerns.

• Fleet and Maintenance: PNG Air operates a fleet of ATR 72-600 aircraft, which are well-suited for short takeoffs and landings on remote airstrips. The airline has invested in modernizing its fleet to improve safety and reliability.

• Regulatory Oversight: Papua New Guinea's aviation industry has faced criticism for inadequate regulatory oversight and infrastructure challenges. However, PNG Air has worked to comply with international safety standards and improve its operations.

• Efforts to Improve Safety: PNG Air has focused on enhancing pilot training, fleet maintenance, and operational protocols to address safety concerns. The airline plays a crucial role in connecting remote communities and is committed to maintaining high safety standards despite the challenges.

airplane in flight

Malaysia Airlines  

Malaysia Airlines has faced safety concerns over the years, particularly during high-profile incidents that brought intense scrutiny to its operations.

• Accident Rate: 2.9 per million flights  

• Notable Incidents: The airline is widely remembered for two major tragedies:

  • Flight MH370 (2014), which disappeared en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 people aboard. Despite extensive searches, the aircraft's main wreckage has never been found, leaving the exact cause a mystery.

  • Flight MH17 (2014), which was shot down over eastern Ukraine, killing all 298 people onboard. The incident highlighted geopolitical risks rather than operational issues. 

• Fleet Age: 10.6 years (average)  

• Malaysia Airlines has faced ongoing challenges since its high-profile tragedies over the last decade. Though the company has advanced safety measures, its history affects its safety perception worldwide.

Nepal Airlines  

• Historical Challenges: Nepal Airlines has faced significant safety issues over the years, largely due to Nepal's mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited aviation infrastructure. These factors have posed ongoing challenges to ensuring safe operations.

• Notable Incidents: The airline's history includes several fatal crashes, especially in the 1990s and early 2000s. Accidents were attributed to a mix of terrain complexities, pilot error, and aging aircraft, which raised safety concerns within the aviation industry.

• Current Safety Status: Nepal Airlines has taken steps to improve its safety record. The airline has begun modernizing its fleet by phasing out older aircraft and adopting newer models. Efforts to enhance pilot training and maintenance protocols have also been implemented. However, Nepal’s aviation sector overall continues to face scrutiny, and challenges in meeting international safety standards persist.

• Accident Rate: 3.4 per million flights  

• Audit Score: Criticized for insufficient adherence to international standards.  

• Navigating Nepal’s challenging geography demands precision, but a lack of modern infrastructure and consistent pilot training has hurt Nepal Airlines’ reputation.

China Airlines  

China Airlines, Taiwan's flagship carrier, has faced a turbulent safety history, especially during the 1990s and early 2000s. Issues included pilot error, aging aircraft, and lapses in operational protocols, which contributed to several accidents.

• Accident Rate: 3.0 per million flights  

• Notable Incidents: The airline has experienced multiple high-profile tragedies, including:

  • Flight 611 (2002), which disintegrated mid-air due to undetected structural damage, killing all 225 onboard.

  • Accidents in the 1990s, often linked to operational shortcomings, further impacted its reputation.

• Current Safety Status: Over the past two decades, China Airlines has taken significant steps to improve its safety record. Investments in fleet modernization, rigorous pilot training, and enhanced maintenance protocols have been made. The airline is now certified by IOSA and adheres to strict global safety standards. Recent years have seen a strong reduction in major safety incidents, bolstering its reputation as a safe carrier.

  
  

Sriwijaya Airlines

• Historical Challenges: Sriwijaya Airlines, an Indonesian carrier, has navigated safety concerns common in the region, including operational infrastructure and adherence to safety protocols. These challenges have highlighted the need for stronger oversight and consistent application of industry standards.

• Notable Incidents: The most significant event in the airline’s history occurred in January 2021 with the crash of Sriwijaya Air Flight 182. The Boeing 737-500 tragically crashed into the Java Sea shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of all 62 passengers and crew. Investigations attributed the crash to mechanical issues compounded by pilot response.

• Current Safety Status: Following this incident, Sriwijaya Airlines has worked on addressing safety gaps by enhancing pilot training, improving maintenance processes, and cooperating with aviation regulators to ensure compliance with international safety standards. The airline continues to operate a mixed fleet, emphasizing rigorous safety checks and operational efficiency.

Blue Wing Airlines

• Historical Challenges: Based in Suriname, Blue Wing Airlines has faced significant safety challenges, largely attributed to operating in a tough environment with limited resources. The airline has struggled with maintaining consistent safety standards, leading to scrutiny from regional and international regulators.

• Notable Incidents: Blue Wing Airlines has encountered several accidents in its history, the most notable being the crash of Flight 112 in 2008 and another fatal incident in 2010. These accidents have resulted in loss of life and underscored concerns about operational safety, further leading to the airline being blacklisted by the European Union for safety non-compliance.

• Current Safety Status: Despite its troubled past, the airline has reportedly made efforts to improve safety measures, including fleet upgrades and enhanced crew training. However, Blue Wing Airlines remains on the EU Air Safety List, indicating there is still progress to be made to meet international standards.

Airblue Airlines

• Historical Challenges: Airblue, a privately-owned airline in Pakistan, has faced challenges typical of burgeoning carriers in developing countries. These include ensuring consistent safety practices, maintaining operational standards, and navigating a competitive aviation market.

• Notable Incidents: The most significant event in Airblue's history was the crash of Flight 202 in 2010. This tragic accident occurred near Islamabad, killing all 152 passengers and crew onboard. The investigation pointed to pilot error and poor communication as contributing factors, which cast a shadow on the airline's safety reputation.

• Current Safety Status: Following the 2010 incident, Airblue implemented steps to enhance its safety standards. This includes further investments in staff training, adherence to international aviation protocols, and a focus on operational efficiency. The airline continues to operate a modern fleet, primarily consisting of Airbus A320 series aircraft, with stringent maintenance processes in place.

Vietnam Airlines  

• Historical Challenges: Vietnam Airlines, the national carrier of Vietnam, has faced a number of safety issues in its earlier years, including concerns over aging aircraft and a lack of international-standard infrastructure and training.

• Notable Incidents: The airline has experienced a few notable accidents in its history, with incidents primarily occurring in the 1990s and early 2000s. These included mechanical issues and pilot errors, reflecting broader challenges in Vietnam’s developing aviation sector at the time.

• Current Safety Status: Over recent decades, Vietnam Airlines has significantly improved its safety record. The airline has heavily invested in fleet modernization, adopting modern Airbus and Boeing aircraft, and focused on enhancing pilot training and maintenance standards. It is now certified by IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) and adheres to global safety regulations. Currently, Vietnam Airlines is considered a safe and reputable carrier, with a strong commitment to operational excellence.

Other Airlines that need to be mentioned.

There are a few out there that have a stigma about them due to the past but have really improved over the years. Still the past accidents still affect thoughts and even though there is improvement, still not some of the best in the world. That list includes:

Jeju Airlines

• Historical Challenges: Jeju Airlines, a low-cost carrier based in South Korea, has maintained a relatively clean safety record since its launch. While the airline operates in a sector with tight profit margins, which can sometimes pressure safety, it has focused on maintaining operational efficiency and reliable service.

• Notable Incidents: There are no major accidents or fatal incidents associated with Jeju Airlines. Minor events, such as precautionary landings and technical delays, have occurred but are not unusual in aviation.

• Current Safety Status: The airline employs modern safety protocols and operates a fleet primarily composed of Boeing 737 aircraft, known for their maintenance-friendly design. Jeju Airlines complies with global aviation standards and is subject to South Korea’s stringent safety regulations. Its commitment to safety is reflected in its continued growth and reputation as a trusted low-cost carrier.

Azerbaijan Airlines 

• Historical Challenges: Azerbaijan Airlines, the national carrier of Azerbaijan, has navigated safety challenges typical of developing aviation markets, including fleet modernization and adherence to evolving international standards. Earlier years saw the use of older, Soviet-era aircraft, common among regional carriers during the post-Soviet transition.

• Notable Incidents: The airline's most notable accident occurred in 1995, when Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 56 crashed shortly after takeoff, leading to significant loss of life. This tragedy brought attention to safety oversight and operational practices, necessitating critical improvements over the years.

• Current Safety Status: The airline has since made extensive efforts to enhance safety. These include retiring aging aircraft, investing in an updated fleet, and aligning operations with International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. Azerbaijan Airlines now uses newer models like the Boeing 787 and adheres to rigorous maintenance and pilot training programs, reflecting its focus on safety and efficiency.

Air France  

• Accident Rate: 2.3 per million flights  

• Notable Incidents: Flight AF447 mishap raised alarms about flight deck automation and crew training.  

• While Air France has invested in fleet upgrades, the global aviation community still remembers past high-profile incidents.

Analyzing Common Aviation Safety Issues  

Across the airlines on this list, several recurring issues impact safety records:

• Age of the Fleet: Older airplanes demand more complex maintenance and are prone to mechanical errors.  

• Maintenance Lapses: Delayed or insufficient repairs compromise flight safety over time.  

• Training Gaps: Insufficient flight crew training is a key contributor to incidents tied to pilot error.  

• Challenging Geographies: Regions with mountainous terrain or isolated runways amplify operational risks.  Sometimes the shortest way, as in over a mountain range, is the not the safest way to get from point A to point B. 

Practical Tips for Safe Flying  

Despite these concerns, air travel is statistically one of the safest transportation methods. To ensure safe flight experiences, here are some tips:

• Research Airlines: Before booking, check online reviews and audit ratings for peace of mind.  

• Pay Attention to Safety Briefings: Knowing the nearest emergency exit could save your life.  

• Opt for Newer Fleets: Carriers with modern aircraft tend to offer safer journeys.  

• Fly Major Carriers: Larger, well-established airlines usually have stricter safety protocols.  

  
  

Safety record for U.S. airlines

This will come as a shock, but ratings have come out on which US/ Domestic Airlines is considered the worst. Here is the list from Worst to best. This includes the worst disasters and incidents on the runway.

10. America Airlines

9. Frontier Airlines

8. United Airlines

7. Hawaiian airlines

6. Alaska Airlines

5. Southwest

4. Jet Blue

3. Delta Air Lines

2. SkyWest

1. Spirit Airlines.

Yes, this may come as a shock, Spirit Airlines is considered to be the safest airline. Less than 15 incidents from 2019 to 2024, nobody has ever died because of an incident and the last major accident happened in the 197os. As much as Spirit is made fun of for being a no frills, and a low-cost airlines. They have the rest of the above list beat on being the safest carrier.

I do find it hard to believe that an American Airlines flight is less safe than Spirit, it totally blows my mind. The good news is that even though American may be the worst safety wise in the United States, it is still far better than the world's worst airline list earlier in this blog. This past year has been hard on the American airline's safety profile.

Why Air Travel Still Stands Strong  

Even with incidents that threaten public confidence, air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation. Aircraft today are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, airline staff receive ongoing professional training, and constant oversight from aviation authorities fosters enhanced safety cultures worldwide. Efforts such as pilot retraining, fleet upgrades, and collaborative regulations ensure that airlines continue to grow safer with every passing year.

This blog contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I might receive a commission at no extra cost to you.