by "Sport Pilot" Jan 31, 2006 at 10:01 AM


Statistics say that the only thing more dangerous than flying small
planes is skydiving. However that includes IFR. I recall reading in
aviation consumer years ago that VFR flying is safer than motorcycles
but still behind automobiles. IMO a lot could be done about small
aircraft safety. I recall Burt Rutan proposed a system that would
probably make IFR flying safer, but would add expense for a heads up
display.

Well, I think scuba diving is also up there as high risk. I'm not saying
that flying a small plane is not "high risk" (thats y so many life
insurance companies have exclusions for diving, flying and skydiving),
just that a cautious flyer (not pushing minimums, thourough pre flight
100% of the time, flying a relatively new plane, etc.) is safer than
riding a bike, IMO.

I don't think there will ever be a way to 100% objectively compare safety
statistics of different modes of transportation, but the most thoughtful
studies have put it about at the level of riding a bike. But I still
think flying a plane puts most of the risk on the pilot (training,
competence, currency, etc.) whereas on a motorcycle, you are at the whim
of people in cars and trucks.


I had numerous close calls on my old Yamaha RD 350 when I was in my 20s.
All caused by cars that didn't see me or just didn't care. When I flew in
the past, I wasn't really worried about a mid air. These are statistically
rare.