3 Causes of Plane Crashes

3 Causes of Plane Crashes

Plane crashes are exceedingly rare, and it is often said that you are more likely to get in an accident on the way to the airport than you are while traveling on the plane. However, accidents do still happen occasionally, and investigators work endlessly to figure out the cause of the crash each time. Here are three of the most common causes of plane crashes.

1. Pilot Error

Pilots undergo extensive training to get to where they are, but they are still human and even the most seasoned pilots can make mistakes. Pilot error refers to a mishap that is caused by the pilot rather than by a fault in the airplane or aircraft hardware kits. Fatigue is a big issue that pilots deal with, as the occupation comes with irregular and demanding hours. Fatigue, as well as other factors such as poor training and intoxication, can lead people to make poor decisions.

2. Weather

Unlike pilot error and mechanical problems, weather cannot be controlled. Some hazardous weather that can cause plane crashes includes:

  • Snow and the resulting ice buildup on the wings of the plane
  • Heavy winds, which can unexpectedly make a plane go from side to side
  • Fog, which reduces visibility and the ability of pilots to watch for other aircraft

3. Mechanical Problems

Most systems in an aircraft are built to be fail-safe, which means that it takes multiple things going wrong to bring down a modern airplane. Some mechanical issues that have caused crashes include bolts and screws not being fitted properly, engine failure, and faulty flight control systems. Plane crashes due to mechanical problems can be reduced by conducting regular maintenance on the aircraft and increasing pilot training on what to do when something goes wrong. 

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In the extremely rare event of a plane crash, one or more of these factors may be the culprit.

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Earl Barnes