The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Geneva

Airline industry association IATA yesterday said latest data showed that there were fewer aviation accidents so far this year compared to a year ago. Thirty-seven accidents have been recorded so far this year, compared to 67 by the same period last year, IATA spokesman Anthony Concil told AFP. He added that in terms of hull-loss or serious accidents whereby the aircraft body is severely damaged, there have been 11 incidents so far this year compared to 12 at the same time last year. "There have been high profile accidents this year, but we need to keep in mind that safety overall this year is better than last year," he said.

Concil added that the combined death toll was not available for the year to date and would be available only for the full year.