Author Description

Aviation accidents are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities in Alaska. Pilots in Alaska die at a rate nearly 100 times the mortality rate for all U.S. workers, and over five times the rate for all United States pilots. Unlike the rest of the country, many of Alaska's villages are not connected by a road system; commuter and air taxi operators serve as the main link between these villages and regional hubs, transporting people, cargo, and mail. Although several federal programs have begun to address the issues surrounding aviation safety in Alaska, work remains to be done. This document describes a comprehensive survey of air-taxi operators and pilots in Alaska in which company and pilot demographics, flight practices, and attitudes about safety were examined. It provides information about current practices and how industry views potential safety measures, which is critical to designing effective prevention strategies. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, as the national agency responsible for occupational safety and health research, is committed to continuing to reduce the number of fatal occupational aviation crashes in Alaska. We look forward to further work with government, industry, and nonprofit partners who share our interest in protecting American workers who fly in Alaska.