Neither Midway Airport nor JFK, these are the most dangerous airports and runways in the US

There have been a spate of high-profile aviation incidents in recent weeks, led by the Army Black Hawk-American Airlines collision which sent both aircraft into Washington DC’s Potomac River, killing 67 people.

Other crashes have produced significantly fewer casualties, while there have also been several near-misses, including a Delta Air Lines plane flipping over on the runway upon arrival at Toronto Pearson Airport and a Southwest jet being forced to take evasive action to avoid colliding with a small private plane at Chicago Midway International Airport.

Despite all that, flying is still considered to be by far the safest way of travelling, with a recent study carried out by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology showing a person’s odds of dying in a plane crash is approximately one in 13.7 million. If you’re flying soon, there’s no need to worry.

Colorado airports head US ‘most dangerous’ list

There are, though, some airports in the United States that are known for producing hairy moments. These five are thought to be among the hairiest.

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport in Aspen, Colorado

A steep approach, unpredictable mountain winds, and surrounding high terrain mean Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, which is often subject to snowy conditions, is seen as one of the most dangerous around. To back that up, flights are only allowed to take off and land during the day.

Telluride Regional Airport in Telluride, Colorado

The fact Telluride Regional Airport is the highest commercial airport in the United States at 9,070 feet above sea level means pilots have to contend with thin air, plenty of turbulence, difficult terrain and unpredictable weather, which can lead to icy runways.

Eagle County Regional Airport in Vail, Colorado

Another Colorado airport is made problematic by its setting. The surrounding mountains result in complex approaches, with frequent winter storms not only making departures and arrivals difficult, but also operations in general.

Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport in Sitka, Alaska

You’ll find Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport on a small island just off the coast of Alaska, which probably tells you all you need to know. Its location means it exposed to strong winds and severe weather in general, with its short runway and proximity to the water adding to the danger.

John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California

John Wayne Airport has one of the shortest commercial runways in the United States, which means pilots are forced to climb and drop steeply and rapidly in order to comply with noise regulations. It’s also a busy place located close to built-up areas, which shouldn’t really have an impact but adds to the stress.

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