Aviation Safety Programs

This text explains how to prepare and implement aviation safety programs. It was prepared for aviation executives, managers, directors of safety, union staff, and anyone involved in aviation safety program management at any level. It contains a full explanation of the aviation safety process along with a discussion of the elements of an aviation safety program. Included are numerous checklists on various aviation safety subjects along with a sample aviation safety program.

This, the 3rd edition, also incorporates information regarding customer-contractor relationships, safety management systems, system safety engineering, aircraft ground operations, and human factors. Included are various aviation safety checklists along with a sample aviation safety program. Aviation safety is a dynamic subject. New ideas, new techniques, and new programs have characterized the years since the 2nd edition.

What's new in the 3rd edition?

  • FAA guidelines including the functions, qualifications, and responsibilities of the Director of Safety.
  • Updated accident cost accountability to reflect current thinking and in the economic language of management.
  • Discussions of ICAO's current role in aviation safety and corresponding positions.
  • An expanded and updated Risk Management section.
  • An expanded Human Factors section which includes the viewpoints and concepts of experts in human error and human factors.
  • An updated and expanded Bibliography and list of Internet addresses.
  • New chapter covering Other Approaches to Aviation Safety including:
    • Safety Management Systems (SMS)
    • Error analysis programs
    • "Safety Case" concept
    • Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP)
    • Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA)
    • Global Aviation Information Network (GAIN), and others


About the author

Richard H. Wood is a pilot, a registered professional safety engineer, and a certified safety professional. Mr. Wood's extensive aviation safety experience spans over 40 years. He is not only an industry expert, but also a retired university professor who has written extensively on the aviation safety subject.