While modern Airbus planes are all incredibly safe, the Airbus A380 and A350 are often cited as the safest due to having zero fatal crashes in their entire service history (A380) or an outstanding record with no passenger fatalities (A350), largely due to advanced technology and rigorous design, though the A350 is newer and has fewer flight hours. The Airbus A320 family also boasts an excellent safety record for high-volume short-haul flights, with a very low fatal crash rate per million flights.
The global A350 fleet has completed more than 2.00 million flights on more than 1,365 routes, transporting more than 530 million passengers with no fatalities and one hull loss in an airport-safety-related incident.
The Boeing 737 has an accident rate of approximately 1 in 16 million flight hours whilst the A320 is very slightly lower at 1 in 14 million flight hours. To put it in perspective, you are far more likely to be involved in a car crash than a plane crash.
Boeing and Airbus planes are equally safe
It's partly because Boeing operates notably more flights than Airbus does, so in terms of sheer numbers, Boeing has more accidents. It should be noted that the Jalopnik report adjusts the data for the number of flights to more fairly compare the two manufacturers' records.
The Airbus A350 is one of the safest and most advanced aircraft in the world. Its advanced avionics, sophisticated autopilot system, and cutting-edge safety features make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable aircraft.
On 2 January 2024, a runway collision occurred at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan, involving an Airbus A350-900, operating as Japan Airlines Flight 516, and a De Havilland Canada Dash 8-Q300 operated by the Japan Coast Guard (JA722A).
Its design range already allows for some of the longest nonstop services in the world, while the airframe's composite structure makes it lighter than the 777-9 at empty. In ultra-long sectors, the Airbus continues to be the safer option for operators who value simple, low-risk flying economics.
There's no definitive answer—it depends on the pilot's personality, training, and priorities. Some pilots may find Airbus's side-stick and automation more comfortable, while others may prefer the tactile control and familiarity of Boeing's yoke. Both designs represent decades of innovation and safety-first thinking.
November 12, 2001. American Airlines 587, an Airbus A300-600, N14053, crashed into a residential area of Belle Harbor, New York shortly after takeoff from Kennedy International Airport. All 260 people on board and five people on the ground died in the crash.
It was found that Boeing had more accidents than expected, while Airbus had fewer (p 0.015). In terms of fatalities, Boeing had more than expected, with Airbus fewer (p < 0.001). Looking at accidents alone, only the number of fatalities was statistically significantly different.
🛫 What Makes the 737 MAX Controversial? The Boeing 737 MAX was grounded globally in 2019 following two accidents linked to a flight control system known as MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System).
The A320neo Family is the most comfortable and fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft family on the market. The latest engines, sharklets and Airspace cabin combined deliver at least a 20% fuel burn and CO₂ emissions advantage per seat.
Top-ranked carriers include Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, ANA (All Nippon Airways), and Qatar Airways, along with consistently strong performers like Etihad, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, and Alaska Airlines. These airlines pair modern fleets with rigorous training and transparent safety reporting.
The 10 most dangerous aircraft ever made
Boeing: Known for its emphasis on efficiency and performance. Boeing aircraft tend to have a more streamlined and conservative design approach. Airbus: Often focuses on technology and innovation. Airbus aircraft incorporate advanced avionics and fly-by-wire systems, allowing for more automation and digital control.
According to 2024 data, Airbus has a slightly better safety record than Boeing. Boeing's crash rate is 1.7 times higher than Airbus, and recent issues with the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner have affected public trust. The Airbus A320 family also has a lower fatality rate compared to the Boeing 737.
Boeing and Airbus planes are equally safe
It's partly because Boeing operates notably more flights than Airbus does, so in terms of sheer numbers, Boeing has more accidents.
Airbus A320: The A320 family helps airlines reduce operational costs due to its low operating expenses and fuel efficiency. Its suitability for medium-range flights makes it a cost-effective choice. Boeing 777: The Boeing 777 offers a cost advantage on long-haul flights due to its high passenger capacity.
For example, a pilot transitioning from a Boeing to an Airbus has to get certifications due to cockpit specifications, flight dynamics, and operational philosophies. A Boeing-trained pilot could technically fly an Airbus, but such a change is neither seamless nor easy since it demands a rigorous retraining process.
Boeing secured 1,000 new jet orders through November, surpassing Airbus by approximately 200 orders for the year. Boeing has not reported a full-year profit since 2018 and has not delivered more jets than Airbus since 2018. Boeing is projected to deliver almost 700 jets in 2026, an increase from about 600 in 2024.
✈️ Both are incredible long-haul aircraft, but they have some key differences. The 777-9 is longer, has a higher seating capacity, and a massive wingspan. But the A350-1000 has a longer range and has been in service since 2018. Airbus 350 is proven bird and flying actively when B777X still have long way to be approved.
Many airlines prefer Boeing for its long history and reliability in the Airbus vs Boeing question. However, Airbus's modern designs and efficient aircraft have won over a significant portion of the market. Many airlines fly both brands.