Following a series of notable airplane failures, crashes, and thorough safety investigations, many passengers are increasingly anxious about flying. This concern is reflected in online communities, including a dedicated Subreddit where individuals discuss their fears. While numerous factors influence a flight’s success, two critical phases—landing and takeoff—are particularly challenging. This concern is underscored by alarming statistics: of the 1,468 accidents reported by the International Air Transport Association in 2024, 770 occurred during landing and 124 during takeoff, further emphasizing these phases’ inherent risks.
Veteran pilot Steve Schreiber, known for his YouTube channel Captain Steeeve, recently addressed passenger anxieties surrounding flying in a video that gained significant attention. When asked if pilots experience more nervousness during takeoff or landing, Schreiber reassured viewers by stating, “It’s Captain Steve, I’m not nervous.” He elaborated that while he sees taking off as more critical due to the aircraft’s heavy weight and slower speed, it involves a level of experience and training that allows pilots to remain calm. Once airborne, the aircraft begins to burn fuel and lose weight, allowing a level of control that diminishes with the added weight during takeoff.
Despite the statistics indicating that takeoff is statistically less dangerous than landing, its potential hazards cannot be overlooked. Factors such as weight, fuel content, and external elements—including traffic on the runway, miscommunication, and even wildlife—pose significant risks during this phase. Schreiber emphasized the importance of a pilot’s mental composure, attributing this calmness to their extensive training, education, and certification. These credentials arm pilots with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities and challenges they face during both takeoff and landing.
The urgency of addressing safety concerns becomes even more evident with high-profile incidents occurring in 2025, where takeoff-related accidents led to tragic outcomes. For instance, an Air India crash resulted in over 200 fatalities shortly after takeoff due to power failures within the aircraft. Closer to home in the U.S., a potentially disastrous incident at LaGuardia Airport was avoided when an aircraft took off on a runway that another plane had not yet fully cleared. This near-accident resulted from a miscommunication among air traffic controllers, illustrating the critical need for clear, accurate communication in aviation.
Emergency situations have also arisen from unexpected complications post-takeoff. In a noteworthy case earlier in 2025, a FedEx plane departing from Newark Airport had to make an emergency landing after a bird strike led to a catastrophic engine failure. Such incidents underscore the unpredictable nature of flying, contributing to passenger fears about potential dangers at various stages of air travel. However, the aviation community’s focus remains on continuous learning and improvement to mitigate these risks as much as possible.
Shifting focus from flight safety to in-flight behaviors, Schreiber addressed another common concern among passengers: the necessity of putting electronic devices on airplane mode. According to the experienced pilot, modern devices can emit microtransmissions that interfere with critical navigation systems. In an era where even minor technical issues can result in serious accidents, Schreiber urged passengers to ensure their devices are turned off or in airplane mode. This call to action highlights the shared responsibility of passengers and crew in maintaining flight safety, reinforcing the idea that every individual’s actions contribute to a secure flying experience.
