They are so big and it seems like so much could go wrong yet they are statistically extremely successful.
In: Engineering
designs are thoroughly tested, any small change needs to be approved.
There are backup systems for everything that is critical, often with different design so it nearly never fails the same way, at the same time. A multi-engine plane can fly with one or even 2 off vs a car that has 1 engine and one steering wheel.
The pilots are highly trained and evaluated regularly on a simulation that presents different scenarios. There are usually a pilot and a copilot who can question decisions or take over if needed. There are mandatory rest time and no tolerance for alcohol and a medical check regularly. Compared to a driver who needs to pass a test once, can drive even after drinking and staying up all night.
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