JUNEAU — A fatal plane crash in Alaska has highlighted the state’s dire aviation safety record, with recent statistics showing higher rates than the national average.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board, Alaska reported 10 fatal plane accidents in 2019, excluding an incident in Unalaska pending federal investigation. This marks an increase from nine fatal crashes in 2018, eight in 2017, and 12 in 2016.
Data from the NTSB indicates that 5.4% of the 221 fatal plane crashes in the U.S. in 2016 occurred in Alaska, despite the state accounting for less than 1% of the national population.
Authorities attribute the high accident rate to factors including limited radar coverage and challenging weather conditions, along with the state’s vast, rugged terrain. Tom George, Alaska Regional Manager for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, emphasized that weather remains a significant factor in these accidents.
The NTSB’s preliminary findings also suggest that accidents like the one on May 20 in Metlakatla Harbor, which resulted in two fatalities, underscore the need for improved safety measures.
Ongoing analysis and investigations are crucial as state and federal agencies work to address aviation safety in Alaska.