IS IT SAFE UP THERE

This paper deals with the issue of airline safety. While travel by commercial airplane is by far the safest mode of personal travel, averaging about 200 fatalities per year, an airplane accident is always a matter of great public interest and concern, frequently resulting in enormous media coverage, Congressional interest and calls for action. The author briefly describes the national aviation system and explores the basics of safety. The safety of today's system is discussed and lastly, the prospects for a safe system in the future, in the face of accelerating demand for aviation services.