What about the air traffic controllers? There are always around 5,000 planes flying above the U.S., and a large team is required to ensure the safety of passengers. Pilots are the ones flying the aircraft, while air traffic controllers guide the plane from takeoff, through the air, and after landing. Although they don't get nearly enough recognition, air traffic controllers are a fundamental part of why air travel is so safe, even if you make sure to book with one of the safest airlines in the world. In another incident, a plane heading for the French island of Corsica was left to circle the skies for 18 minutes before it was able to land because the air traffic controller had fallen asleep.