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

Aviation SMS Implementations Have Risk!

Imagine you are the pilot recently assigned the "extra" task of being the safety manager of an existing aviation safety management system (SMS).

Or perhaps you are the safety manager who has worked hard for years and your SMS is running very smoothly. Now what?

Problems Monitoring Control Measures to Reduce Risk

An SMS provides management with a framework to facilitate decision-making and to dynamically shape the operating environment. Continuous improvement is a core element of every mature SMS.

What Are Risk Statements in Aviation SMS Risk Management?

Aviation Safety Management Systems (SMS) are the backbone of modern aviation safety, providing a structured approach to

• identifying hazards,
• assessing risks, and

What Is an Aviation Safety Management System

Aviation safety management systems are formal, structured methodologies for managing aviation safety programs. ICAO mandated that most aviation service providers implement SMS programs in 2006.

There are guidelines as to aviation SMS requirements that most SMS professionals are familiar with,

The Frustration of Monumental Tasks of SMS Implementation

Many aviation safety managers happen upon the task of "safety manager" by chance. The previous safety manager may have:

I Don't Need an Aviation SMS Database... or Do I?

Many aviation service providers today are researching features and capabilities to acquire databases to address documentation requirements of their aviation safety management system (SMS). Alternatively, these operators are not looking to acquire an SMS database, but to:

Safety Manager Communicates With Upper Management

Aviation safety managers are faced with particular challenges stemming from:

• Acquiring top management support for aviation safety management system (SMS); and
• Maintaining top management support for the safety department.

Aviation Safety Managers Key SMS Personnel

Without fail, every aviation safety manager I have met has the following attributes:

• Resourceful;
• Very hard working;
• Dedicated to the company and task;
• Articulate; and
• Competitive.

Are Aviation SMS Software Programs Necessary?

Most aviation companies are profit-driven. Aviation service providers attempt to provide safe services while providing a return on investment.

Many upper-level managers at smaller companies believe that safety managers don't need modern aviation safety management databases

Problems With Aviation Safety Departments vs Operations

Aviation service providers are in business to provide a service. While some providers are government-funded, most offer their services to achieve common strategic business objectives, namely:

• Increased market share;
• Increased financial or physical resources; or