What Is Going On With Plane Travel?

Monday’s plane crash has rattled travelers and industry insiders alike, sparking fresh concerns about air travel safety. So, how risky is flying right now? In this article, we break down the latest developments, assess the real dangers, and explore alternative travel options for corporate events.

First and foremost, flying on a U.S. airline is incredibly safe—so safe that fatal crashes are too rare to even calculate meaningful odds. Yet, because aviation disasters grab headlines, they seem far more common and dangerous than they actually are.

That said, the recent uptick in aviation incidents is raising eyebrows. The FAA has long warned about understaffed air traffic control systems, and on Monday, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association voiced concerns over federal employee terminations affecting safety and the national airspace system. The NATCA said they were “analyzing the effect of the reported federal employee terminations on aviation safety, the national airspace system and our members.”

Still, the reality is that air travel has only become safer over the past 50 years. The Jan. 29 crash in Washington, D.C., which claimed 67 lives, is the only fatal commercial aviation accident of 2025—and the first in the last 15 years.

The corporate event industry has no reason to hit the panic button over flight risks—as we stated, air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation. However, if recent headlines have your clients rethinking logistics, there are smart ways to minimize airline dependence without sacrificing great events.

Consider hosting your annual conferences closer to HQ, making it easier for employees to attend without a flight. Opt for drivable cities with solid infrastructure, allowing attendees to road-trip instead of fly. Some of the most drivable cities in the U.S. include Columbus, OH; St. Louis, MO; Kansas City, MO; Raleigh, NC; and Indianapolis, IN—all offering great venues and accessibility.

Hybrid events are another win—let remote teams join virtually while keeping the in-person crowd smaller and more local. With a little creativity, you can keep your events thriving while giving travel-weary attendees more convenient options!

Ultimately, air travel remains one of the safest ways to get around, but that doesn’t mean the corporate event industry can’t evolve with the times. By choosing strategic locations, embracing hybrid models, and prioritizing drivable cities, companies can host impactful events without the added travel stress. Whether attendees are flying, driving, or tuning in remotely, the real focus should be on fostering meaningful connections. So rather than stressing over flights, channel that energy into making your next event the most engaging one yet!

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