If you're trying to not die, the most important thing is to choose a reputable airline. One that hires and retains experienced pilots with rigorous training programs. (Most major US airlines meet this standard).

And non-suicidal pilots (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germanwings_Flight_9525)

Yep. That's a big one. It also helps to avoid flying over areas with widespread use of surface-to-air missiles.

Ah, good old exceptionalism. Getting people killed since the beginning of time.

I won't argue that it's not exceptionalism. In fact, it is exactly that. Per mile flown, no other country compares.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/danielreed/2016/12/28/in-the-la...

flightaware.com seems to know what airplane is being used.