BRITS are increasingly questioning the safety of air travel, with a surge in related Google searches following recent aviation disasters.

Searches for terms such as “how safe is flying” and “aviation accidents and incidents” have reached an all-time high this year, suggesting growing public unease.

David Martin, Managing Director at aerospace tooling supplier Heamar, addressed growing public concern by highlighting the UK’s world-leading approach to aircraft maintenance and its rigorous compliance standards.

David Martin said: “Under UK Civil Aviation Authority, Part 145, an aircraft cannot be released until engineers have the correct facilities, tooling, data and sign-offs.

“A 2024 amendment makes a full Safety Management System mandatory for all approved organisations by July 1, 2026. That level of rigour is why the UK is recognised as having one of the safest aviation systems globally.

“Specialist maintenance tools, including calibrated torque, crimp, and inspection equipment, enable frontline teams to carry out checks quickly and correctly, while meeting stringent safety thresholds.

“Our experience working with airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul companies has always been one of strict regulation and compliance. Every tool we supply must meet detailed specifications, perform its function precisely, and be traceable and properly controlled throughout its use.”

While plane crashes remain extremely rare, especially on UK-bound flights, they tend to dominate headlines worldwide when they occur.

The recent Air India tragedy and the fatal crash of a medical transport plane bound for the Netherlands from Southend Airport on Sunday, July 13 has further heightened concern. David Martin addressed the social media coverage that these events have.

He said: “Increased social media coverage, including viral videos of recent incidents, has understandably amplified public fears. But these stringent provisions should help ease concerns and reinforce that the UK’s compliance-led system continues to uphold some of the world’s most rigorous aviation safety standards.”

Ultimately though, in the wake of these tragedies, many travellers are now asking; is air travel still safe?