Engine failure in a GA single has over 80 % chance of avoiding major injury or death. The survival rate is significantly lower in light twins, especially LOC in proximity to the ground. Accident rates peak 80 - 200 hours overall flying time. There is a gradual improvement with most of the significant safety gains from pilot error occurring in the first 500 hours.Accident rates go up again just a little over 1500 hours experience in GA flying, perhaps due to complacency, however never going anywhere near the risk of sub 500 hours pilots.
As far as age goes, the safest pilots are between 50 and 55 years of age, with pilots in their sixties being safer than pilots in their 30's. Pilots under the age of 25 are especially risky, and under 20 years of age highly risky.The age related safety figures apply equally to ppl's, cpl's, or atpl's.
Night flight in GA aircraft Vfr is about the same risk as riding a motorbike.
Most deaths in GA are CFIT, weather related, Loss of contol at low altitude, fuel, or VMC into IMC.
WOrk hard. to sytematically eliminate the above risks from your flying. Practice your emergency routines regularly. Flw with abundant caution. Avoid flying over inhospitable coutry if you can avoid it. If you feel uncomfortable with your situation in the air , act decisively toward the conservative option. Actively plan for a wide range of contigencies.Be current, healthy, hydrated, rested and non-distracted when you fly.
So if you want to be thrilled,go on the first solo night flight of an 18 year old friend who has 85 hours experience ,over inhospitable terrain in marginal weather after a big night out.....etc etc
If you want to live, a pleasant flight in the day and good weather, with a 1000 hour 53 year old GA pilot who doesnt drink, had a great sleep, and who has a lovely neat kneeboard and flies regaularly, over open terrain, I could happily go to sleep in the aircraft with plenty of confidence.
Last edited by Mimpe; 12th Sep 2011 at 13:40.