French Bee, a relatively new player in the airline industry, has made significant strides in establishing a reputation for safety since its inception in 2016 (launched as “French Blue,” rebranded to French bee in 2018). As a low-cost carrier based in France, it operates long-haul flights primarily between Paris and various destinations in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean. The airline is a subsidiary of the Dubreuil Group, which has a long history in aviation and has invested heavily in ensuring that French Bee adheres to high safety standards.
The airline’s safety record is strong, with no fatal accidents to date. One BEA-investigated serious incident occurred on 2020-02-04 during a go-around at Paris-Orly; the investigation was closed in July 2021 with no injuries reported (BEA case F-HREV, 2021; SKYbrary summary, 2020). The airline’s commitment to safety is reflected in its operational practices and the technology it employs.
French Bee operates a modern fleet of Airbus A350 aircraft—six A350s (4 × A350-900 and 2 × A350-1000) as of 2025-09-12—equipped with advanced safety systems that enhance operational reliability (Planespotters, updated 2025-09-12; French bee fleet page). The combination of a modern fleet and a strong safety culture has positioned French Bee as a reliable choice for travelers concerned about safety.
Key Takeaways
- French Bee has no fatal accidents on record; one serious incident on 2020-02-04 at ORY concluded with no injuries (BEA, 2021).
- The airline follows strict safety measures and procedures to ensure the well-being of its passengers and crew, operating under France’s DGAC oversight and complying with EASA Air Operations rules (Part-CAT/Part-ORO) (EASA Air OPS, 2025-02-14; FAA/DGAC oversight note, 2023).
- French Bee’s pilots undergo rigorous, recurrent training aligned with EASA requirements (EASA Part-ORO GM/AMC, updated 2025-07-09).
- The airline prioritizes regular maintenance and inspections of its aircraft in line with EU continuing airworthiness rules (EASA Part-CAMO overview).
- French Bee is an IATA member and has been IOSA-registered since 2019 (IATA, 2020-12-14; Aviation Safety Network, 2019-10-13).
Safety Measures and Procedures
French Bee has implemented a comprehensive set of safety measures and procedures that align with international aviation standards. These measures encompass various aspects of operations, from pre-flight checks to in-flight protocols. One of the key components of their safety strategy is adherence to European Union Air Operations rules (e.g., EASA Part-CAT and Part-ORO) under the oversight of France’s civil aviation authority (DGAC) (FAA/DGAC, 2023).
This compliance ensures that French Bee’s operations are regularly audited and evaluated against high standards. In addition to regulatory compliance, French Bee has established internal safety protocols that include regular training sessions for all staff members, from flight crews to ground personnel. These training sessions cover emergency procedures, risk management, and crisis response strategies.
The airline also conducts regular safety drills to ensure that all employees are well-prepared to handle any potential emergencies. By fostering a culture of safety awareness among its staff, French Bee aims to minimize risks and enhance overall operational safety.
Pilot Training and Experience
The training and experience of pilots are critical components of an airline’s safety framework, and French Bee places significant emphasis on these areas. The airline recruits pilots with substantial experience in commercial aviation, often seeking those who have previously flown for major carriers. This focus on experienced pilots ensures that the flight crews possess the necessary skills to handle various flight scenarios, including adverse weather conditions and technical malfunctions. French Bee’s training program is robust and multifaceted, incorporating both simulator training and real-world flight experience. Pilots undergo extensive simulator sessions that replicate a wide range of flight conditions and emergency situations.
This training not only enhances their technical skills but also prepares them for effective decision-making under pressure. Furthermore, French Bee emphasizes continuous professional development, encouraging pilots to engage in ongoing training throughout their careers. This commitment to pilot proficiency aligns with EASA’s organization requirements and guidance on crew training (EASA Part-ORO GM/AMC, updated 2025-07-09).
Aircraft Maintenance and Inspections
| Metrics | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Aircraft Inspections | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed |
| Average Maintenance Downtime (hours) | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed |
| Percentage of Scheduled Maintenance Completed | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed | Not publicly disclosed |
Like other EU carriers, French Bee’s maintenance and continuing airworthiness programs operate within the EU regulatory framework (e.g., EASA Part-CAMO and the consolidated Air OPS rules), with oversight by DGAC/OSAC in France (FAA/DGAC letter, 2023).
Safety Ratings and Certifications
Safety ratings and certifications play a crucial role in establishing an airline’s credibility in the eyes of passengers and regulatory bodies alike. French Bee is a member of IATA and has been IOSA-registered since 2019 (ASN, 2019-10-13; IATA, 2020-12-14). In Europe, airlines operate under DGAC oversight while complying with EASA’s Air Operations regulation (EASA Air OPS, 2025-02-14).
Incident and Accident History
When assessing an airline’s safety record, it is essential to consider its incident and accident history. French Bee has maintained an impressive track record since its establishment, with no fatal accidents reported. A notable serious incident occurred on 2020-02-04 at Paris-Orly (A350-900 F-HREV); BEA’s final report (July 2021) details the go-around deviations and recommendations, with the flight landing safely and no injuries (BEA report, 2021-07; SKYbrary, 2020).
Passenger Reviews and Feedback
Passenger reviews provide valuable insights into an airline’s performance, particularly regarding safety perceptions. French Bee has garnered generally positive feedback from travelers regarding its safety measures and overall service quality. Many passengers have noted the professionalism of the flight crews and their adherence to safety protocols during flights.
This positive feedback contributes to building trust among potential customers who may be considering flying with the airline. Moreover, passengers often highlight the modernity of French Bee’s fleet as a reassuring factor when it comes to safety. The Airbus A350 aircraft are praised for their spacious cabins and advanced technology, which many travelers associate with enhanced safety features.
While individual experiences may vary, the overall sentiment among passengers suggests that French Bee is successfully instilling confidence in its commitment to safe air travel.
Comparison with Other Airlines
When evaluating French Bee’s safety record and practices, it is essential to compare it with other airlines operating in similar markets. Many low-cost carriers face scrutiny regarding their safety measures due to their focus on cost efficiency; however, French Bee distinguishes itself through its commitment to maintaining high safety standards without compromising on service quality.
While some competitors may prioritize cost-cutting measures that could potentially impact safety protocols, French Bee has chosen to uphold stringent standards across all aspects of its operations. This dedication not only enhances passenger confidence but also positions the airline favorably within an increasingly competitive market. Furthermore, when compared to traditional carriers, French Bee’s approach reflects a blend of affordability and reliability that appeals to budget-conscious travelers without sacrificing essential safety measures.
As air travel continues to evolve, French Bee’s commitment to maintaining a strong safety record while offering competitive pricing will likely play a crucial role in shaping its future success within the aviation industry.
If you are considering flying with French Bee and want to ensure a safe travel experience, it is important to do your research. For an overview of how airline safety is audited globally, see IATA’s IOSA program. By being well-prepared and informed, you can have a safe and enjoyable journey with this airline.
FAQs
Is French bee a safe airline?
French bee has a strong safety record and is considered a safe airline. It has no fatal accidents on record and underwent the IOSA safety audit program (registered since 2019) (ASN, 2019-10-13; IATA, 2020-12-14).
What safety measures does French bee have in place?
French bee adheres to EU Air Operations regulations and DGAC oversight. The airline conducts regular maintenance checks and provides ongoing training for its crew members in line with EASA guidance (EASA Air OPS, 2025-02-14).
Has French bee had any major safety incidents?
No accidents. One serious incident on 2020-02-04 at Paris-Orly (A350-900 F-HREV) concluded without injuries (BEA, 2021-07).
Is French bee regulated by any aviation authorities?
Yes. French bee is regulated by France’s Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) and must comply with EASA Air Operations rules (FAA/DGAC, 2023; EASA, 2025-02-14).
What is the safety reputation of French bee among passengers?
French bee has a positive safety reputation among passengers, supported by a young, all-A350 fleet and adherence to internationally recognized safety standards (Planespotters, updated 2025-09-12).