Safety Systems (SMS) - SM4 Safety Articles & Resources
The Case for Better Standard Operating Procedures
In July 2008, a business jet operating under 14 CFR Part 135 touched down long on landing. In its analysis, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) noted that, recognizing the deteriorating situation, the flight crew attempted a balked landing and initiated a go-around.
Airline-Grade Insight, Business Aviation Agility
For many years, there was a noticeable divide in how operational data was used across the aviation industry. Large airlines generated vast volumes of flight data and employed dedicated teams to analyze trends across their fleets.
The Case for a Business Continuity Policy
Among the most devastating of events that could befall a flight department is an accident that results in the loss of life. A corporate flight department is a close-knit group of people that can almost be considered a family, and the impact of a fatal accident is profound.
“My Aircraft!”
No one wants to hear a crew member shout “My Aircraft!” when they are the pilot flying (PF). Although it only happens when things have gone astray, it is something…
Safety Intelligence Is Business Intelligence
Traditionally, when we think about safety, we think about compliance—adhering to regulations or audit standards. Spending money on formal safety systems is often viewed as an unnecessary expense. After all, the thinking goes, if we haven’t had a serious incident or accident, why spend the money?
‘Tis the Season: The Importance of Assessing Your Safety Program’s Performance
As yet another year draws to a close, we turn our attention to planning for the new year. And to plan is to understand, clearly, where we started from, what is before us, and our ultimate destination or end goal.
The Real Crisis Test: When Your Contingency Plan Meets Reality
Business aviation departments excel at operational planning. They maintain detailed checklists, establish clear communication protocols and train teams for emergency scenarios. However, when real disruptions occur, many find that textbook preparedness and actual chaos follow very different rules.
Honest Mistakes, Fair Consequences: Unleashing the Power of Just Culture
In today’s complex business environment, organizations face pressure to uphold high standards of safety and compliance while fostering efficiency and innovation. A key question emerges: How do we encourage transparency and learning while maintaining accountability and fairness? The answer lies in building justness within organizational culture.
Stress Can Hurt You Fast or Slow
In the high-stakes world of aviation, split-second decisions can mean the difference between safety and catastrophe, and stress is an ever-present companion. For pilots, air traffic controllers, mechanics and other personnel, managing stress isn’t just about personal well-being—it’s a critical factor in ensuring safe operations.
