Icao reports rise in global aviation accidents; calls for renewed focus on safety

Between 2019 and 2024, the highest number of accidents occurred in 2019 with a total of 114 incidents. However, both overall accidents and fatal crashes increased again in 2024 after a dip during pandemic-affected years. ICAO analysis indicates that turbulence was responsible for almost three-quarters of serious injuries last year. The report also highlights bird strikes as the leading cause of fatalities among occurrence categories, followed by loss of control during flight.

Chart data from ICAO shows that about three-quarters of serious injuries stemmed from turbulence-related incidents in 2024. Over eighty percent of all fatalities resulted from loss-of-control-inflight events or bird strikes.

To address these risks, ICAO is introducing targeted safety initiatives such as global runway safety action plans designed to reduce excursions and incursions. Real-time turbulence monitoring systems are being advanced so operators can better anticipate severe weather conditions.

The organization is also responding to rising concerns over Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) radio frequency interference by developing updated guidance on spoofing and jamming mitigation strategies, revising navigation manuals, and collaborating with partners to safeguard GNSS integrity.

Efforts continue toward improving reporting systems for accidents, incidents, and wildlife strikes—allowing earlier identification of emerging threats through enhanced data-driven management. ICAO further emphasizes progress made on transparency and learning from past incidents.

Strengthening civil-military cooperation remains another focus area for mitigating conflict-related risks within aviation operations. Additionally, ICAO is preparing regulatory frameworks for integrating unmanned aircraft systems and advanced air mobility vehicles into traditional airspace structures—a priority highlighted in this year's safety report.

Regionally, Asia-Pacific and Europe/North Atlantic each experienced three fatal airline accidents last year; South America had one event that caused sixty-two deaths. The Asia-Pacific region led with the highest total number of fatalities among regions reviewed by ICAO.

Further details on regional performance factors—as well as ongoing support mechanisms provided by ICAO Regional Offices—are included within the full safety report available online.