Flying remains one of the safest and most efficient forms of transport, yet myths about air travel persist. From fears about turbulence to misunderstandings about how planes stay in the sky, misconceptions can cause unnecessary anxiety and spread misinformation. To help demystify the experience of flying, we’ve gathered the top 10 myths about aviation—debunked by experienced pilots.
1. Turbulence Means a Plane Is in Trouble
One of the most common fears, turbulence is rarely dangerous. Pilots liken it to driving on a bumpy road. Aircraft are designed to handle far more stress than turbulence causes, and pilots are trained to fly through or around it safely.
2. Planes Can Glide to Safety If Engines Fail
Contrary to belief, if both engines fail (an extremely rare event), commercial aircraft can glide for long distances. For instance, a Boeing 747 can glide about 100 miles from 30,000 feet. Pilots are trained for such events and simulate them regularly.
3. Oxygen Masks Don’t Really Help
Oxygen masks are a vital safety tool. In the event of cabin depressurisation, these masks provide passengers with essential oxygen, preventing hypoxia until the aircraft descends to a breathable altitude.
4. The Air Inside the Plane Is Full of Germs
Aircraft cabins are fitted with HEPA filters, similar to those used in hospitals. These remove over 99% of airborne particles, including viruses and bacteria, making cabin air cleaner than many public indoor environments. As explained by BBC Future, HEPA filters refresh cabin air every 2 to 3 minutes: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-32786537
5. Mobile Phones Can Crash Planes
While it’s important to follow airline rules, personal electronic devices are highly unlikely to interfere with modern aircraft systems. Restrictions are more about avoiding distractions during critical phases of flight rather than safety risks.
6. The Doors Can Open Mid-Flight
It’s physically impossible to open aircraft doors mid-flight due to the difference in cabin and external pressure. At cruising altitude, the doors are sealed shut by thousands of pounds of pressure.
7. Pilots Sleep Through the Flight
Long-haul flights are operated by multiple pilots, and rest breaks are planned. When one pilot rests, another is fully alert and monitoring the aircraft. Autopilot assists but doesn’t replace human oversight.
8. Flying Is Riskier Than Driving
Statistically, flying is much safer than driving. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), 2023 recorded just one major accident for every 1.26 million flights. Read the full 2023 IATA Safety Report here: https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2023-releases/2023-global-safety-report/
9. Lightning Strikes Can Bring Down a Plane
Commercial aircraft are designed to withstand lightning strikes, which occur more often than most passengers realise. The electricity travels through the aircraft’s conductive structure without harming systems or passengers.
10. Pilots Rely Entirely on Autopilot
Autopilot helps manage routine flying tasks, especially during cruise. However, pilots are actively involved in take-off, landing, and any complex flight phases. They also monitor systems constantly to ensure safety.
Why Aviation Recruitment Needs Expertise
Debunking these myths highlights just how technically advanced and highly regulated the aviation sector is. The demand for skilled professionals—whether pilots, aircraft engineers or avionics technicians—continues to grow globally.
VHR’s Aerospace & Aviation recruitment specialists work closely with airlines, MROs and OEMs to source the best talent. With our in-depth understanding of the industry’s challenges and compliance standards, we support both candidates and clients through a seamless hiring process. Learn more about how VHR supports aviation recruitment here: https://www.v-hr.com/aerospace-and-aviation-recruitment
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Whether you’re considering a career in aviation or looking to move into a new role, VHR’s aviation team can connect you with opportunities in over 50 countries.
Explore our latest Aerospace & Aviation jobs here: https://www.v-hr.com/jobs or contact us for tailored support in your aviation career journey.
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