The number of fatal general aviation accidents has declined by 5% this fiscal year, according to the FAA.
The FAA’s goal was to have no more than 331 fatal general aviation accidents during the 12 months ending Sept. 30. The actual number was 314. Fatalities also declined, from 676 in fiscal 2006 to 564 in fiscal 2007.
“This record is due to a dedicated commitment to safety by everyone in general aviation,” said FAA Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety Nicholas A. Sabatini. “In particular, manufacturers are providing sophisticated technology like GPS and glass cockpits — and the training to go with them — and the FAA is vigorously encouraging adoption of these safety enhancements.”
In October 2006, the FAA ushered in a new effort to help aircraft owners, pilots and aviation maintenance technicians avoid mistakes that lead to accidents. Called the FAA Safety Team, the program is devoted to decreasing accidents by promoting a cultural change in the aviation community toward a higher level of safety. The program features data mining and analysis, teamwork, instruction in the use of safety management systems and risk management tools, and development and distribution of educational materials.