Is Flying Still Safe? Here's What the Experts Say

Is flying still safe? Here’s what the experts say…

This week’s tragic air disaster in Washington, D.C., has many travelers on edge, asking the question, is flying still safe?

The good news: Despite a recent string of accidents, flying is still the safest mode of travel according to aviation air experts interviewed by CNN.

“Statistically speaking, you’re safer in your flight than you were driving in your car to the airport,” one expert said—even after accounting for the recent accidents.

In fact, a 2023 report found that “on average a person would have to travel by air every day for 103,239 years to experience a fatal accident.” That’s incredibly safe. Experts say there’s no real reason to worry once you get on your flight.

But—that’s not to say things can’t worse. A preliminary report from the FAA found that the air traffic control tower was understaffed at Reagan National Airport the night of the accident. A single controller was performing a job usually done by two people.

In fact, data shows that 90% of airport towers are understaffed in our country.

Recent moves by Donald Trump mean that number could get worse. The president, under pressure from airlines, dismantled a key aviation safety committee right before the crash.

And the president—bowing to billionaires and big business—has pledged to gut the federal government so they can get tax breaks. That means even fewer air traffic controllers may be on the job.

As one aviation safety expert told CNN: “I don’t know that passengers should be worried, but I think it’s important for the flying public to be vocal and demand that the government and the different entities do everything possible to make air travel as safe as possible.”

On a related note: Gay icon Pete Buttigieg had the perfect response after ‘despicable’ Trump tried to blame him for that deadly plane crash (the first one 🫠)

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Some *~Interesting~* Reads

News you may have missed on traveling, queers, and traveling queers 🗞️

• Trans Americans are accusing Trump of a travel ban after suspending the processing of trans Americans’ passport applications

• And: a new study shows an astounding number of LGBTQ+ youth are moving to more inclusive states

• Apropos of nothing, Russia is building an electronic registry of LGBTQ+ citizens after naming the “international LGBT movement” a “terrorist organization”

• Seeking escape (aren’t we all?) this lesbian sailed to the top of the world… girl, take me with you next time

• Here’s a fucked-up headline: Olympia becomes Washington's first sanctuary city for LGBTQ+ people

• After Target dropped DEI, this state’s largest Pride festival dropped Target's sponsorship — and raised even more $$$

• Elon Musk and other billionaires are exploiting LGBTQ+ hate for profit, GLAAD CEO tells Davos audience

• Gay flight attendants are sharing the secrets of their high-flying career

• Troye Sivan reveals he’s into hairy guys and more in this risqué new Grindr campaign

• Thailand just scored 2 big wins for trans people & same-sex couples

• Alan Cumming says he spent his 60th birthday getting ‘daddy action’ at this London gay club

• The best and worst US states for LGBTQ+ equality have been revealed in a new HRC report

• 8 LGBTQ+ music festivals you’ve never heard of (but need to experience)

• Want to see a city like a local? Take the subway

• After Bad Bunny’s sexy towel thirst trap in a NYC hotel, Queerty wants to know - where’s the best place to take a thirst trap and why? 

Q&A Time:

Last week we asked, have you ever lived abroad? Here are the results:

• “I live in Puerto Vallarta for the past 9 years… since he was elected the first time!” 👏

• “Racism and Religion are pushing out reason and rational values.”

• “With the current administration retiring some place else seems more appealing. Preferably some place warm and sunny, with beaches and mountains.”

• “I am bisexual, and yes, I do enjoy wearing women's underwear (and occasionally, clothes) because I feel sexy in them. but, I've never lived a broad. I have still lived a a dude.” 💀

This week we want to know: are you worried about flying becoming less safe? Give us your thoughts in the comments…

This Week’s *~Best Deals~*

We’re always on the hunt for top-tier experiences that welcome all and won’t break the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨ 

• Stay 4 nights in a Puerto Vallarta all-inclusive—with flights included—for just $699

• Our favorite Gay hotel chain is offering 30% off all their locations with code Winter25

• Get a $75 credit when you stay at St. Pete Beach's iconic 'Pink Palace'

• A European getaway just got cheaper - this flash sale is discounting flights by 25% until Feb. 6

• Here’s how you can stay at The Rocky Horror Picture Show Castle 👀🫦

• Here are all the best points and miles travel deals for February 2025

• Amtrak is offering a buy one get one free sale on long distance “Roomettes”

• Avis is offering 25% off rental cars + a free upgrade

• Crazy low! Stay in the heart of the Las Vegas strip for $14/night (and check out their incredible open-bar ferris wheel while you’re there)