Commercial planes have technology that helps prevent crashes — but it has limitations, which was highlighted by the accident in Washington.

Airlines have been increasingly outsourcing repair and upkeep work to other countries, but experts and consumer groups disagree about its impact on safety.

The Transportation Department said in a lawsuit that two of the airline’s routes were consistently delayed in violation of federal rules.

The industry is enjoying a strong demand for tickets and rising profits, but it remains vulnerable to unexpected problems like a recession or a surge in inflation.

Aviation safety analysts said they expect officials investigating the crash, which killed 179 people, to look into the location and composition of a structure housing an antenna.

The cause of the crash probably won’t be determined for months, with investigators expected to focus on a wide range of issues.

Nearly 200 airlines use the 737-800, which makes up about 15 percent of the world’s fleet of aircraft.

Avelo Airlines and Breeze Airways have found success and loyal customers by serving airports in smaller cities, like New Haven, Conn., that were neglected by national carriers.