Safety Standards on Small Passenger Aircraft--with Nine or Fewer Seats--Are Significantly Less Stringent than on Larger Aircraft

摘要

GAO's analysis of commercial air carrier accident statistics shows that the accident rate for small aircraft-those with nine or fewer passenger seats-is significantly higher than for larger aircraft. Two types of air carriers use small aircraft to provide air service-commuters, which generally provide scheduled service, and air taxis, which generally provide air service on demand. Approximately 44 percent of the commuter fleet and 90 percent of the air taxi fleet consists of small aircraft. GAO found that the airworthiness standards and operating rules for the small aircraft used by air carriers are significantly less stringent than those for larger aircraft used for the same purpose. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation, establishes these standards and rules for all air carriers operating within the United States. GAO recommends that the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of FAA-identify the standards and rules that are significantly less stringent for small aircraft; prepare cost/benefit estimates for possible upgrades of those standards, working with operators and manufacturers; and implement the alternatives that are feasible and cost beneficial.