Are You Already Holding the Pieces to a Complete SMS?
With so many elements to establishing a successful SMS program out there, it can seem frustrating and overwhelming to know where to start. But consider this: many organizations may already be voluntarily implementing aspects of an SMS without even knowing it. Think of an SMS as a giant jigsaw puzzle, with all the pieces fitting together to create one comprehensive program. You probably already have some of those pieces in place—now it’s time to identify what’s missing to maximize safety and realize the financial benefits of a complete SMS.
Real‑world SMS can feel quite different from SMS on paper. How to reconcile the text with what actually works for your organization is a common stumbling block, but acknowledging the policies and practices you already have in place is an easy way to begin.
For example, does your organization require you to complete an operational risk assessment for each flight, or have a process for adhering to the guidance in the FAA’s AC 91–92, Pilot’s Guide to a Preflight Briefing? Fortunately, these assessments already align with Safety Risk Management (SRM) principles outlined in Subpart C of the existing 14 CFR part 5 regulations.
Does your organization have an internal hazard‑ or incident‑reporting system, or maintain a Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) program? If so, you may already be satisfying certain elements of Safety Assurance, required in part 5’s Subpart D.
These safety practices may seem routine, but imagine the potential consequences of skipping them. Now run that logic across your entire organization: where are your blind spots? How could developing an SMS program tailored to your operation introduce those same levels of safety?
The bottom line is you may already be well on your way to understanding and implementing the benefits of SMS, required or not. But you don’t have to evaluate and expand your organization’s SMS capabilities alone—with 45 years of experience in aviation safety, PAI Consulting understands SMS is not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. We are here to help you navigate the developing SMS landscape and tailor a solution to suit your organization’s needs. With us by your side, maybe establishing your SMS program isn’t so overwhelming after all.
Do you have questions or concerns about SMS? Share them with us!
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