European Air Accident Deaths Fall by 30 in 2024

Fatalities from air accidents involving EU-registered aircraft dropped significantly in 2024, with 91 deaths recorded across the European Union—30 fewer than in 2023, when 121 fatalities were reported, according to new data released by Eurostat.

Aircraft accounted for the majority of deaths (74), followed by sailplanes (10), helicopters (6), and balloons (1). Notably, there were no fatal accidents or injuries involving unmanned aircraft—such as drones—for the second consecutive year, reflecting growing safety compliance in that segment.

The report highlights that non-commercial operations—including business, demonstration, flight instruction, and aircraft repositioning—were responsible for over 91% of all fatalities. These were followed by specialized operations (such as agricultural, aerial advertising, or photography flights) at 5.5%, and commercial air transport at just 3.3%.

In terms of injuries, a total of 214 people were seriously or slightly injured in air accidents in 2024, down from 229 in 2023. Aircraft-related incidents accounted for the largest share, with 129 injuries (around 60% of all cases). Sailplane accidents led to 41 injuries, while helicopters and balloons were responsible for 24 and 20 injuries, respectively.

The figures underscore a continuing trend of improvement in European aviation safety, with tighter oversight, improved pilot training, and modernized technology contributing to fewer accidents and fatalities.

Eurostat’s latest data provides further evidence that the EU’s stringent regulatory framework—covering everything from airworthiness certification to crew training and operational monitoring—continues to enhance safety outcomes across both commercial and private aviation sectors.

While 2024 saw a reduction in both deaths and injuries, experts note that non-commercial and recreational aviation remains the most vulnerable category, accounting for the vast majority of incidents. Safety agencies across Europe are expected to continue focusing on this sector through awareness campaigns, stricter maintenance protocols, and data-driven prevention strategies to sustain the downward trend in air accident fatalities.


Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ec.europa.eu