By Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

In aviation, perhaps more than with any other activity, there is really very little that’s new and different when it comes to accident causes. If we fly only on calm, VFR days, pay excruciating attention to our training and proficiency, and operate only new airplanes with the best possible maintenance, we have a good chance at living long enough to know ahead of time which flight will be our last.

The reality is that we often cut corners. Sometimes we’re forced to fly in poor weather. And sometimes stuff breaks while we’re airborne, though the failure itself usually isn’t fatal. Which leaves the pilot—you and me—as one…