Horizon

Horizon Air maintains a generally strong safety record as a regional carrier operating under the Alaska Air Group.

• Recent safety record and any notable incidents (or lack thereof): A significant incident occurred on August 10, 2018, when a Horizon Air Q400 aircraft was stolen from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport by a ground service agent and subsequently crashed, resulting in the sole fatality of the individual. Investigations by the FBI determined this to be an isolated and unanticipated incident, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) finding no violations of security regulations by Horizon Air. In March 2021, incidents reported included a loss of cabin pressure on an E175, turbulence that injured two cabin crew members on a Dash 8-400, sparks in a galley, and an engine shutdown in flight. Additionally, a December 2019 memo from a Horizon Air vice president of flight operations indicated a period of "lax safety culture" following seven operational incidents within 48 hours, including exceeding speed limits, encountering severe turbulence, lightning strikes, and a weight discrepancy issue.
• Regulatory certifications (IOSA, FAA compliance, EU safety list status): As a U.S. airline, Horizon Air operates under the stringent oversight and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Horizon Air, alongside Alaska Airlines, has repeatedly received the FAA Diamond Award for excellence in maintenance training, earning it for 16 of the past 18 years. There is no indication of Horizon Air being on the EU safety list for banned airlines.
• Fleet age and maintenance reputation: Horizon Air's current fleet of Embraer E175 jets contributes to a relatively young average fleet age among U.S. carriers. The airline has a reputable maintenance record, underscored by its consistent recognition with the FAA Diamond Award for maintenance training excellence.
• Overall safety assessment based on available data: Based on available data, Horizon Air has a solid safety foundation, benefiting from its affiliation with Alaska Air Group, which itself is recognized for high safety standards. While notable incidents have occurred, particularly the tragic unauthorized flight in 2018 and a period of concern regarding safety culture in late 2019, the airline's continuous FAA maintenance awards and commitment to a modern fleet support a positive overall safety assessment.
• Any safety awards or recognitions: Horizon Air has been awarded the FAA Diamond Award for excellence in maintenance training for 16 of the last 18 years. Its parent company, Alaska Airlines, has also been recognized among the top-20 safest airlines globally.