Turboprop vs Jet SafetyBoth turboprops and jets are powered by turbine engines, so they are essentially the same thing and thus, are considered to be equally as safe.
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Planes with turboprop engines are typically limited to a lower cruising altitude than jet engines, capping at around 25,000-30,000 feet. Because of this, turboprops are also more susceptible to turbulence, noise, and inclement weather.
This is much different than with piston engines, which also have propellers, but are much different mechanically. Turbine engines are safer and more reliable than piston engines, which are typically found in smaller aircraft.
The safest commercial aircraft models have exceptional safety records, such as the Embraer ERJ, Airbus A380, Boeing 767, Airbus A319neo, and Bombardier CRJ-700.
Turboprops simply cost more: to buy, to own, to fly. They offer better performance, reliability, and lighter engine weight. They also scale up well. After the initial premium for switching to turbines, cost per seat starts to go down.
Whilst turboprop aircraft do not have traditional thrust reversers like those found in gas turbine engines, they can use a different method called 'beta range' or 'beta mode'. This involves changing the angle of the propeller blades to alter the direction of the exhaust airflow.
Limited Cruising AltitudePlanes with turboprop engines are typically limited to a lower cruising altitude than jet engines, capping at around 25,000-30,000 feet. Because of this, turboprops are also more susceptible to turbulence, noise, and inclement weather.
Private Plane Accident FactsOn a large, commercial airliner, fewer than 0.01 fatalities per 100,000 hours flying occur. On private aviation craft, however, that ratio jumps to more than 2.3 fatalities per 100,000 hours flown.