FAA Encourages General Aviation to Adopt Voluntary Safety Management Systems

Earlier this month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released an Information for Operators (InFO) urging general aviation organisations to voluntarily adopt Safety Management Systems (SMS) that align with U.S. and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. This initiative builds on an update from April 2024, which addressed SMS implementation but left gaps regarding operators of large and turbojet aircraft conducting international operations and Part 145 repair stations with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) authorisations.

The FAA emphasised that an SMS integrates risk management into everyday business operations. According to ICAO standards, an SMS should be tailored to the size and complexity of the operation and meet the requirements of the State of Registry. Essential elements of an SMS include processes to identify and evaluate safety hazards, implement corrective actions to maintain safety standards, and ensure continuous monitoring and regular assessment of safety practices for effectiveness and relevance.

In its statement, the FAA encouraged all aviation organisations, regardless of their aircraft type, to adopt SMS frameworks as a fundamental aspect of their business operations to promote enhanced safety

Brookfield Aviation International agrees with the FAA’s proactive steps toward integrating robust safety practices within general aviation. We believe that fostering a culture of safety is essential for sustainable growth in aviation and everyone associated with the industry to embrace SMS as a vital tool for risk management and operational excellence.