Why Airlines/Airports Need Formal Aviation Safety Management Systems (SMS)
People struggle with the reason Aviation Safety Management Systems (SMS) are required. They don't want another foot on their neck telling them what to do, especially if they are the rebellious Americans. "So why should I implement an aviation SMS in my organization?" To save MONEY!
Forget that aviation safety management systems are a regulatory requirement that affects airlines, airports, aviation maintenance, fixed based operators, charter operators and flight schools. Yes, you have to do it, but do it for the right reason for your company.
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| Safety Management Systems Actually Save You Money |
Let's face it, flying is safe. Much safer than a car. We talk to vendors who want an aviation SMS, whether it be an FAA SMS program, ICAO SMS program or the Transport Canada SMS program, and they tell me: "Our customers want an aviation SMS just so they can check the box." Now I'm scared...
In the past many months, there have been several aviation accidents, but the one that affected me the most was a small plane crashing in Lake Hood. Luckily, a family of four (with two dogs) walked away. I don't know whether the pilot participates in a formal aviation SMS. Strangely, the plane landed (crashed) on the lawn of the DOT building, tearing off the floats. I remember clearly the harrowing rides in float planes in Southeast Alaska. I was impressed by the attitudes of employees working at the aviation organizations toward unsafe acts and conditions. They were already practicing satisfactory safety habits. Most people are concerned about aviation safety, especially if they fly daily.
So what is the purpose of the aviation SMS?
- To have "Zero accidents" or serious incidents?
- To reduce hazards?
- To improve employees perception of aviation safety?
- To reduce errors when interacting with hazards? or
- To comply with SMS regulations?
How to Demonstrate Saving Money With Your Aviation SMS Software
It is true that an effective aviation SMS will help accomplish these goals, but the main purpose of implementing an SMS should be to save money. Flying aircraft is expensive. If you can save money while accomplishing the above goals and objectives, then everybody wins.
About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.
