Abstract
Safety Management Systems (SMS) have become an area of focus in recent years for both aircraft operators and regulators. Part 121 air carriers already face regulatory requirements regarding the implementation of SMS. Part 135 air carriers are not yet required by regulators to adopt and implement SMS. However, there are many operators that have implemented SMS ahead of a regulatory requirement. Additionally, several third party auditing agencies such as the International Business Aviation Council’s (IBAC) International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and ARGUS International (ARG/US) encourage the development and implementation of SMS and provide their customers with SMS implementation services. Safety culture and the role of upper level management has also become a focal point surrounding the implementation of SMS and is especially critical for Part 135 carriers as management’s decision regarding SMS implementation exists outside of regulator requirement.
Keywords
safety management systems, safety culture, air charter, Part 135 air carriers
Date of this Version
4-2013