This statement is partly true: Qantas’ safety record is impressive, with accidents mostly occurring before 1951 on biplanes, and no passenger airliner crashes resulting in passenger deaths since then. However, the reason for this claim’s inclusion in the film has a different backstory.
The full version of Rain Man, which includes a scene where the character makes this statement, was only shown on Qantas flights. Most other airlines cut this scene from their in-flight versions, likely due to concerns about safety perceptions or airline policies. The scene’s inclusion was a nod to Qantas’ reputation for safety, but it also became a unique feature exclusive to Qantas passengers.
This in-flight version became a small piece of film history, highlighting how airlines sometimes tailor content to their brand image or cultural references. Today, the full scene remains a curiosity for fans and aviation enthusiasts alike, symbolizing Qantas’ long-standing reputation for safety and reliability.
