Jamie Adams
Jamie Adams, born in Homer, Alaska, developed a deep interest in aviation mechanics growing up in a town surrounded by small airfields and seaplanes. After completing their Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification, Jamie began a career in aviation maintenance, working for 25 years in a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Anchorage. There, Jamie specialized in aircraft systems, focusing on turbine engines and avionics for regional aircraft operating in Alaska’s demanding conditions. Jamie’s meticulous attention to detail and expertise in troubleshooting complex mechanical issues earned them a reputation as a trusted technician among pilots and operators. In 2012, Jamie joined SMS Pro, a leading provider of Safety Management System (SMS) software for the aviation industry. Transitioning from hands-on maintenance to a safety-focused role, Jamie brought their extensive MRO experience to the table, helping aviation organizations implement effective safety protocols. As a safety specialist at SMS Pro, Jamie develops risk assessment tools and training programs, ensuring maintenance teams adhere to global safety standards. Their practical insights have been vital in bridging the gap between operational maintenance and safety management. Jamie continues to reside in Homer, where they enjoy fishing and mentoring young aviation enthusiasts. They hold a degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology from the University of Alaska Anchorage and remain an active member of the Alaskan aviation community.
Introduction to SMS Compliance Challenges
In the aviation industry, safety is paramount, and a robust Safety Management System (SMS) is essential for ensuring compliance with regulations from bodies like the FAA, EASA, and ICAO. However, aviation safety managers face a myriad of challenges in maintaining an effective SMS, from regulatory document reviews to hazard identification and employee engagement. These tasks are often time-consuming, complex, and resource-intensive, creating significant burdens that can compromise safety and compliance.
Read More
Topics:
Aviation SMS Database,
3-Safety Assurance,
Risk Management Software,
2-Safety Risk Management
Challenge of ISAGO Audits for Ground Handlers
Ground handling operations, critical to airport safety and efficiency, face intense scrutiny under the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO), which ensures compliance with global safety standards. The Federal Aviation Administration notes that 70% of ground handling incidents stem from human factors, costing millions annually, per the International Air Transport Association.
Read More
Topics:
Aviation SMS Database,
3-Safety Assurance,
Risk Management Software,
2-Safety Risk Management
Introduction: The Compliance Challenge in Utility Helicopter Operations
Utility helicopter operations, encompassing power line inspections, wildfire patrols, and infrastructure maintenance, are critical for public safety and grid reliability. However, these low-altitude, high-risk missions face stringent regulatory oversight under FAA Part 91 and Part 135, with non-compliance risking fines up to $1.5 million per violation, per the Federal Aviation Administration.
Read More
Topics:
Aviation SMS Database,
3-Safety Assurance,
Risk Management Software,
2-Safety Risk Management
Introduction to Root Cause Analysis in Aviation SMS
Root cause analysis (RCA) is a critical process within an Aviation Safety Management System, enabling safety managers to identify underlying causes of incidents and prevent recurrence. Whether it’s a near-miss on the tarmac or a maintenance oversight, RCA digs beyond symptoms to address systemic issues. The Federal Aviation Administration emphasizes RCA as a cornerstone of FAA Part 5 compliance, ensuring proactive risk mitigation.
Read More
Topics:
3-Safety Assurance,
2-Safety Risk Management
Introduction: The Rise of UAS and SORA Compliance
The Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) sector is soaring, with projections estimating a $63 billion contribution to the global economy by 2025, according to IATA.
From delivery drones to urban air mobility, UAS operations are reshaping aviation. However, advanced operations like Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), Operations Over People (OOP), or fleet missions carry significant risks, necessitating rigorous safety frameworks.
Read More
Topics:
3-Safety Assurance,
2-Safety Risk Management
Introduction to Regulatory Document Review
In the high-stakes world of aviation, safety must not be overlooked. A robust Safety Management System (SMS) ensures compliance with international and national regulations, mitigates risks, and protects passengers, crew, and aircraft.
Read More
Topics:
Aviation SMS Database,
3-Safety Assurance,
Risk Management Software
How to Perform a System Description
In aviation, safety is the top priority, and managing risks effectively is essential to protect passengers, crew, and aircraft. A key element of this process is the system description, a detailed outline of an aviation organization’s operations, components, and interactions. This document serves as the foundation for identifying hazards and assessing risks within the Safety Risk Management (SRM) Pillar of a Safety Management System (SMS).
Read More
Topics:
Aviation SMS Database,
Risk Management Software,
2-Safety Risk Management
Risk Management Tools Mitigate Aviation Incidents
In the aviation industry, where safety is paramount, a single incident can have devastating financial and reputational consequences. Aviation safety managers are tasked with identifying and mitigating risks to prevent costly accidents, while senior management prioritizes strategies that safeguard profitability and operational continuity.
Read More
Topics:
Aviation SMS Database,
Risk Management Software
Why ERP Templates Matter in Aviation
An Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is a structured framework within an aviation SMS that outlines procedures for managing crises, such as aircraft accidents, serious incidents, or operational disruptions like fires or security threats. The ERP integrates with the four SMS pillars—Safety Policy, Safety Risk Management, Safety Assurance, and Safety Promotion—to ensure a proactive approach to safety.
A key aspect of the ERP is its notification framework, which governs how incidents are communicated to regulators, emergency services, families, and the public.
Read More
Topics:
4-Safety Promotion,
3-Safety Assurance,
1-Safety Policy,
2-Safety Risk Management,
FAA Compliance
For new safety managers, the 2-Minute Debrief is a powerful tool to enhance your Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) and ensure compliance with FAA, EASA, and ICAO standards. This quick, anonymous daily survey captures pilot errors, deviations, and safety concerns, helping you predict and prevent incidents. Here’s what it is, how to use it, and why it’s essential for your operation.
Read More
Topics:
4-Safety Promotion,
3-Safety Assurance,
2-Safety Risk Management,
FAA Compliance
