Aviation Safety Software Blog by SMS Pro

What Is Aviation Incident and Accident Reporting Software?

Written by Christopher Howell | Sep 11, 2024 8:05:00 AM

Aviation Incident and Accident Reporting Software

Aviation Incident and Accident Reporting Software are specialized software systems that facilitate the collection, analysis, and reporting of aviation incidents and accidents. Safety reporting systems are crucial for enhancing aviation safety by providing a structured, repeatable process to document, analyze, and learn from occurrences within the aviation industry.

Regulatory Requirement for Incident and Accident Reporting

Since November 2006, most aviation service providers are required to have formal aviation safety management systems (SMS). Collecting safety reports from various stakeholder groups remains challenging due to data security, training and resistance to change by old-school practitioners. Safety reporting systems allow employees and third party stakeholders to securely and anonymously submit safety concerns to management.

Synonyms of Incident & Accident Reporting System

Hazard Reporting System - Implies only Hazards should be reported

Safety Reporting System - Implies only safety concerns should be reported

Issue Reporting System - Amplifies scope to include any management concern that may enter a standard Quality Management System, including, but not limited to:

  • Safety;
  • Security;
  • Quality;
  • Compliance;
  • Environmental;
  • Operational;
  • HR

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Why Use Aviation Safety Reporting Software?

  • Purpose: The primary purpose of aviation safety reporting software is to standardize a repeatable process for:
    • Reporting incidents and accidents;
    • Ensuring all relevant data is captured; 
    • Allowing safety teams to analyze root causes and apply corrective or preventive actions (CPAs);, and
    • Improving safety control measures. 
  • Key Features for Modern Incident and Accident Reporting Software
    • Data Collection: Allows for detailed input of event data, including flight details, personnel involved, environmental conditions, recovery actions taken, and to allow subject matter experts to suggest corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
    • Analysis Tools: Provides functionalities for data analysis, trend spotting, and risk assessment, which can help in predicting potential future incidents.
    • Reporting: Generates reports for internal review, regulatory bodies, or public disclosure, often in formats required by aviation authorities like the FAA or EASA.
    • Integration: Often integrates with other aviation management systems for seamless data flow, including maintenance records, flight operations, and crew scheduling.
    • Security and Confidentiality: Ensures that sensitive information is protected, adhering to privacy laws and regulations, which is crucial for encouraging transparent reporting.
  • Benefits of Incident & Accident Reporting Software:
    • Enhanced Safety: By analyzing data, patterns and systemic issues can be identified, leading to effective corrective or preventive measures.
    • Regulatory Compliance: Helps aviation service providers comply with international and national aviation safety regulations by providing structured reporting mechanisms.
    • Efficiency: Streamlines the process of incident reporting, reducing the time from event to analysis and action.
    • Training and Education: Real data from these systems can be invaluable for training purposes, helping new and experienced aviation professionals identify hazards, understand risks and organizationally approved safety protocols.

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Compared to paper based accident reporting forms, modern Web based safety reporting systems are undoubtedly far superior. Modern systems enhance both accountability and transparency. Today’s Web and mobile-friendly systems are fundamental in the proactive approach to aviation safety, moving from reactive accident investigation to predictive safety management.

If you are interested in acquiring an incident and accident reporting system for your company, SMS Pro has full features tools that have been popular in the aviation industry since 2008.