Record Low Fatal Accidents in Experimental Aircrafts in 2025
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) announced on February 5, 2026, that fatal accidents in the Experimental-category aircraft reached another milestone low during the 2025 federal fiscal year. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of safety education programs across the general aviation community.
From October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, fatal accidents in the Experimental category totaled 42 – one under the “not-to-exceed” number set by the Federal Aviation Administration. This achievement is particularly significant as it occurred during a period of increased flight hours, demonstrating improved safety despite higher activity levels.
“The FAA has commended the aviation community for the continued downward trend in Experimental-category fatal accidents, even as flight hours have increased,” said Sean Elliott, EAA’s vice president of advocacy and safety. “What is most gratifying is the growth of the ‘safety mindset,’ which is using education rather than regulation to produce a safer aviation community.”
The “not-to-exceed” number is calculated based on a rolling average of the previous three years’ data. The EAA, based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, represents 300,000 members and 900 local chapters dedicated to recreational aircraft flying, building, and restoration. The organization is using these positive results as a foundation to further expand safety programs and education initiatives in 2026.
Source: GlobeNewswire