Why Helicopters Crash More Often Than Airplanes

Helicopter crashes have been a tragic and recurring news headline, which have brought about debate about their safety compared to airplanes. The recent spate of high-profile helicopter crashes, including those involving celebrities like Herbert Wigwe, his wife and son, Kobe Bryant and his daughter, and the most recent Ebrahim Raisi brought this issue into sharp focus. 

According to the National Transportation Safety Board, helicopters crash at a rate of 9.84 per 100,000 hours of flight time, which is significantly higher than the 7.28 crash rate for general aircraft. This begs the question: Why do helicopters crash more often than airplanes?

Higher Risk of Collision of Objects

One major reason why helicopters crash more often than airplanes is their lower flying altitude, which increases the risk of collisions with objects like mountains, trees, buildings, and towers. While commercial airplanes can soar above these obstacles, helicopters often navigate through more treacherous airspace, putting them at greater risk.

Lack of structured flight paths

Unlike airplanes that follow established flight patterns and use runways, helicopters often fly into locations inaccessible to other aircraft. This lack of structured routes and the need for frequent takeoffs and landings make helicopters more susceptible to accidents. Each takeoff and landing introduces a new set of risks, contributing to the higher crash rate.

Difficult-to-maintain machinery

Helicopters are mechanically complex, with numerous moving parts that require meticulous maintenance. Finding certified technicians with the specialized training needed to maintain these machines is challenging. This can lead to improper maintenance, increasing the likelihood of malfunctions. Some operators may also cut corners to save costs, further compromising safety.

Poor weather conditions

Flying in adverse weather conditions such as strong winds, rain, and snow is perilous for helicopters. Unlike airplanes, helicopters struggle in turbulent conditions and have less ability to navigate around poor weather. Pilots must be vigilant and prepared to cancel flights when faced with unfavorable weather, but sometimes the unpredictability of weather can catch them off guard, leading to tragic outcomes.

Requires highly trained pilots

Operating a helicopter demands a high level of skill and training. Helicopters are more challenging to fly than airplanes due to their design and the need for frequent takeoffs and landings. Unfortunately, some crashes are attributed to pilot error, where negligence, fatigue, or impairment play a role. A well-trained, focused pilot is crucial for safe helicopter operation.