Air France and American Airlines Are Tied for the Most Plane Crashes

What we’re showing

Global airlines ranked by their number of plane crashes, according to research from Executive Flyers (published Sept. 19, 2023).

Key takeaway

Global airlines have suffered a small number of accidents throughout history. Considering there are millions of flights per year, major crashes are actually extremely rare.

Notable crashes

While many plane crashes do not result in fatalities, here are some examples that were particularly deadly:

• Air France: In June 2009, Flight 477 crashed into the Atlantic Ocean killing all 228 onboard.
• Air China: In May 2002, Flight 611 disintegrated mid-air due to repair faults, killing all 225 onboard.
• United Airlines: In Sept 1965, Flight 389 crashed while landing in Salt Lake City, killing 43 of 91 passengers.
• Thai Airlines: In Aug 1987, Flight 365 crashed near Phuket, killing all 83 onboard.