This kind of reporting is dishonest as well as irresponsible. It is dishonest, because, quote The CAA last week refused to release the database, saying: “It is not a public document.” unqoute
However the journalist then "obtained access" to the data.
It is irresponsible because they are undermining airline safety departments' efforts to encourage crews to submit safety reports within a blameless and open safety culture. They claimed to analyse the 7000 reports, but you cannot analyse anything if you have no idea how to put that information into context. It was simply sensationalised not analysed!
I have a scoop for the Sunday Times: Flying is not safe, it IS inherently dangerous! However, it has been turned into the safe mode of travel that the public take for granted by the brilliant and dedicated work of aircraft manufacturers, regulatory bodies, safety departments and not least all the airline crews and engineers who maintain a high level of safety reporting to ensure accidents are prevented.
I do not work for Monarch, but I would be livid at having the reputation of the company and my livelyhood threatened by this irresponsible slide into unresearched gutter journalism.
The people at Monarch fly passengers to their destinations safely, because they understand how to operate within a dangerous environment professionally. Maybe the Sunday Times should try being responsible some time.