Are old aeroplanes less safe than modern ones?
Older aircraft are required to meet the same safety standards as more modern types and must comply with all airworthiness directives published by the Civil Aviation Authority. Any component on the aircraft with a specified fatigue life is carefully monitored and inspected, and all maintenance is carried out by a Civil Aviation Authority approved maintenance organisation. Aircraft such as the Chipmunk were intended for heavy military use and were designed with reliability and strength, rather than cost, in mind. It is a very sturdy and reliable aeroplane and has an excellent safety record.
