Asian air safety problems aggravated by COVID-19

Despite the reduced air traffic amid the coronavirus pandemic, major air accidents and fatalities are running higher than usual this year, with Asia a major part of the problem. Fatalities involving commercial airliners stand at 315 so far, already exceeding last year's total of 283, according to Aviation Safety Network data. Last month, 21 died when an Air India Express jet overran a runway upon landing in southern India. Asia is the fastest-growing air traffic market, but the growth hasn't been matched by corresponding improvements in safety. "The problem could have been worse if the coronavirus hadn't reduced air travel," said Hiroshi Sugie, an aviation analyst who was a Japan Airlines pilot for 43 years. At the core of the problem is a shortage of pilots and other experts. Though the pandemic has temporarily reduced demand for such professionals, the issue remains unresolved for airlines in Asia. The financial woes caused by the pandemic could worsen the situation as hard-pressed airlines reduce resources for keeping pilots' skills sharp, let alone training new ones. Even before the pandemic, airlines in Asia were under financial pressure amid tough competition. For instance, Air India Express -- an offshoot of national flag carrier Air India -- competes against a number of other low-cost carriers, including IndiGo Airlines, Jet Airways, SpiceJet and GoAir. "In many cases, pilots are not as proficient as they once were, with many just passing their training," said Geoffrey Thomas, head of the site Airline Ratings. Within Asia, safety concerns have led the US FAA to keep Thailand and Malaysia in its Category 2 as not in compliance with the safety standards of the ICAO, a UN body. Airlines in Category 2 countries are not allowed to operate flights to the US. Story has more details.<br/>