Enhancing Aviation Safety: Expert Insights, Tips, and Updates from SMS-Pro

Auditing Compels Operators to Adopt Better Aviation SMS

Aviation quality and compliance auditors use auditing software to measure compliance and to track corrective actions. IATA's IOSA program is a very good program to steer airlines toward an ICAO compliant safety management systems (SMS).

Providing Aviation SMS Training - the Big Challenge

In phase two of an ICAO compliant aviation safety management system (SMS) implementation plan, operators must deliver training to reactive risk management processes.

In phase three, safety managers must ensure that employees are trained in proactive and predictive risk management processes.

"SMS" Is Common Term in Aviation Industry

Unless you have been living under a rock since November 2006, it is highly likely that you have heard about the required safety management systems (SMS) that were mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Vendors as Part of Aviation SMS Initiatives

Aviation operations worldwide depend on a vast network of vendors and suppliers delivering critical services, from aircraft maintenance in bustling hubs to ground handling in remote regions, making their integration into Safety Management Systems (SMS) essential for consistent safety.

These vendors, though external to the core organization, perform tasks that directly influence the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft.

Legacy Safety Reporting Systems Increase Auditing & Financial Risk

Aviation safety managers commonly tell me that audits become much less painful after switching over to their new aviation safety management system (SMS) database software.

Aviation SMS Training Does Not Have to Break the Bank

In Phase 2 and Phase 4 of an ICAO compliant aviation safety management system (SMS), aviation service providers must

• Deliver training relevant to reactive risk management processes; and
• Develop training relevant to operational safety assurance.

Common Question Before Aviation SMS Implementations

I interact with safety managers and accountable executives as we provide consulting and database services for aviation service providers implementing formal aviation safety management systems (SMS).

Occasionally, I hear these groups saying, "We only want the pilots to participate in the SMS."

Safety Professionals Need to Understand Risk Control Strategies

Aviation safety managers must monitor risk controls for effectiveness as they are associated with many hazards encountered in daily operations. There is an expectation of regulatory agencies that aviation service providers' implemented safety management systems (SMS) will:

• proactively manage safety;
• identify potential hazards,
• determine the risk associated with those identified hazards; and
• implement and monitor control measures that mitigate the risk.

Aviation SMS Are Not Required by All Operators

In November 2006, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICA0) mandated the implementation of formal aviation safety management systems (SMS) for most commercial aviation service providers. Besides the usual suspects of large airlines and airports,

Introduction: The Critical Choice of an Aviation Safety Database

Selecting an aviation safety database is a pivotal decision for safety managers, often fraught with apprehension. Whether launching a new Safety Management System (SMS), upgrading an existing one, or managing a legacy solution, the choice impacts compliance, efficiency, and safety outcomes.

The Federal Aviation Administration reports that 70% of incidents stem from human factors, underscoring the need for robust data management to mitigate risks.