The years 2020 and 2021 will be remembered as the most turbulent period in the history of the airline industry, marked by unprecedented fluctuations in passenger volumes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Regaining passenger confidence has become a critical factor for airlines to navigate the ongoing economic challenges and remain competitive in the uncertain years ahead.
Emerging technologies, once sidelined during the previous decade of industry growth, are now being rigorously evaluated for their potential to address crucial COVID-19 challenges. Here are four key technology trends set to transform the aviation industry:
1. Big Data & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been pivotal in transforming aviation operations during the crisis. AI is being used to optimize flight routes, enhance weather forecasting, and develop virtual assistants for customer queries. Additionally, AI is improving logistics operations, facial recognition systems for security checks, and self-service kiosks with augmented reality.
According to a market survey, 97.2% of aviation companies are deploying big data and AI, with 76.5% leveraging collected data for cognitive learning initiatives. For instance, Southwest Airlines has partnered with NASA to use machine-learning algorithms for safety enhancements, while easyJet employs AI for predictive analysis to offer personalized traveler services.
2. Biometric Technology
The pandemic has underscored the need for frictionless travel, making biometrics a must-have technology. Star Alliance launched an interoperable biometric identity platform in November 2020, and Emirates introduced an integrated biometric path at Dubai International Airport. Etihad has also trialed facial biometric check-in for cabin crew, highlighting the industry’s shift towards seamless passenger experiences.
3. Cybersecurity and the Cloud
Airlines are increasingly aware of the limitations of legacy infrastructure, especially in delivering high-performance enterprise systems and customer-facing applications. A hybrid cloud infrastructure strategy is enabling airlines to scale resources dynamically to meet the demands of the digital age.
The cloud is now seen as the most secure and scalable solution for data management, such as document management for aircraft OEM data. Centralized databases reduce information silos, enhancing security and operational efficiency.
4. Sustainability
Sustainability is a critical focus in climate change discussions, with aviation being a significant contributor to fossil fuel consumption and environmental impact. The pandemic has accelerated the push for decarbonization and green technology investments. Companies like IAG, Japan Airlines, and Qantas are committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, while Finnair aims for carbon neutrality by 2045. Digitization is playing a crucial role in facilitating these sustainability goals.
A Digital Future
The benefits of technology in operations, cybersecurity, and customer experience are already evident and will continue to grow. 2021 marks the era of accelerated digital transformation, with technology becoming an integral part of everyday life across all industries, especially aviation. Airlines must embrace these advancements to enhance their services, gain a competitive edge, and avoid being left behind in the digital revolution.
In aviation, practical drift refers to the gradual deviation of actual performance from designed performance due to factors that may or may not be under an organization’s direct control. This phenomenon can significantly impact an airline’s safety management system. According to ICAO, practical drift is inevitable, primarily due to human factors. However, with robust processes, data analysis, and a strong safety culture, organizations can harmonize these deviations and prevent catastrophic outcomes.
What Causes Practical Drift in Aviation?
Accidents and serious incidents in aviation often result from a combination of seemingly minor, unrelated issues. These latent issues can remain undetected until they converge unexpectedly, leading to a major problem. Practical drift exacerbates these risks by gradually eroding the effectiveness of safety controls.
Key contributors to practical drift include:
Technology: Systems that do not operate as predicted.
Procedures: Tasks that cannot be executed as planned under specific conditions.
Complacency: A lack of vigilance in routine operations.
Resource inadequacy: Insufficient support equipment or personnel.
Safety culture: Weaknesses in organizational attitudes toward safety.
By conducting meaningful trend analysis on routine operations, organizations can identify and address these latent issues before they escalate.
The Role of Drift Diagrams in Understanding Practical Drift
A drift diagram visually represents the gradual deviation of operational performance from the baseline (ideal) performance. Initially, systems are designed to follow a straight-line performance trajectory (blue line). However, real-world operations often deviate from this baseline due to external influences, resulting in a “practical drift” (red line).
Figure: A drift diagram showing baseline performance (blue) vs. actual performance (red) over time.
Scott A. Snook, who first proposed the theory of practical drift, argues that drift is inevitable in any system. Organizations must proactively monitor and analyze data to identify leading indicators of drift and implement corrective actions.
Mitigating Practical Drift in Aviation
To combat practical drift, aviation organizations should:
Leverage Data Analysis: Use advanced analytics to identify trends and anomalies in operational data.
Conduct Regular Audits: Perform safety audits and observations to detect deviations.
Foster a Strong Safety Culture: Encourage reporting of near-misses and latent issues.
Invest in Training: Ensure personnel are competent and motivated to follow procedures.
Monitor Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs): Track SPIs to assess the effectiveness of safety controls.
By addressing practical drift early, organizations can prevent minor deviations from escalating into serious incidents.
Practical Drift and Aircraft Drift: A Critical Connection
Aircraft drift—a term often used to describe deviations from intended flight paths—can be influenced by practical drift. For example, outdated technology, procedural gaps, or complacency among pilots can lead to unintended deviations. Understanding the relationship between practical drift and aircraft drift is essential for enhancing aviation safety.
Conclusion
Practical drift is an inherent challenge in aviation safety management. By recognizing its causes, leveraging tools like drift diagrams, and implementing proactive mitigation strategies, organizations can reduce risks and maintain operational excellence. Stay vigilant, analyze trends, and foster a culture of continuous improvement to keep your operations on course.
While the specifics may vary slightly from one organization to another, the core principles of an aviation Safety Management System (SMS) remain consistent. These four components (which in turn are broken down into twelve elements) are listed in ICAO Document 9859 and it is likely that you are already familiar with them, particularly if you have implemented your own SMS by now.
The following article examines how each of these four components should be developing in your organization by asking a number of questions that might be phrased by your NAA inspectors as they seek to determine if your SMS is delivering your stated safety objectives and is improving continuously as part of the Performance Based Oversight objectives discussed in Annex 19, Revision 1.
Policy
Is your safety policy easily accessible, and is your workforce fully engaged and supportive?
Do employees understand the importance of hazard identification and safety reporting?
Is timely and adequate feedback provided to those who report hazards?
These three questions apply across the entire organization and are not confined to Flight Operations. This can only be achieved if management are likewise engaged and empowered to deliver the safety policy. What evidence is available to demonstrate your enterprise approach to safety management? Items such as an increase in voluntary reporting rates for all departments can be used. Furthermore, the establishment of a Just Culture (ASAP in the USA) must be evidenced and must be used by management at all levels.
Risk Management
Is your safety reporting system user-friendly and easily accessible? Complex systems can deter employees from reporting hazards.
Are hazard reports acted upon, and is feedback provided to the reporters?
Are your risk registers up-to-date and accessible to management?
How do you monitor the effectiveness of risk controls and mitigations?
Do you have adequate resources to meet the requirements of implemented risk controls?
Are there processes in place for safety issue risk assessments and management of change?
Does your risk process consider the broader impact of risks, including financial, reputational, and environmental factors?
How are risks communicated to the workforce? Are visual tools like Bow Tie diagrams used to simplify understanding?
A primary objective of the risk control process should be to ensure that the appropriate resource is allocated to mitigate identified risks. Ideally, a register of all controls should be maintained alongside the risk register. All identified risks must be accepted by a responsible manager and high-level decisions should be made using risk-based analysis. Finally, there must be suitable processes in place to review and monitor all risks listed in the register as part of the assurance processes.
Assurance
Are your risk controls implemented and effective?
Are controls reviewed regularly?
Is your SMS improving continuously?
Is your SMS delivering your stated safety objectives?
Have you agreed to operate to an Acceptable Level of Safety Performance (ALoSP) with your Regulator and can you demonstrate that you are achieving this?
Assurance is a critical component of an SMS. Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs) and Safety Performance Targets (SPTs) are typically used to meet these requirements, as detailed in Document 9859 (Issue 4). Without these, it’s challenging to demonstrate ALoSP and continuous improvement.
Promotion
Unless the safety policy and its objectives are communicated widely and in a format that is designed to engage all employees, it is unlikely to be effective. Poster campaigns can be useful, but short lived. Management must promote the safety policy continuously. This could be in the form of monthly safety newsletters by fleet managers (which could be a leading SPI if used). Again, this process should be adopted across all departments and whilst safety promotion is often very good in the flight operation:
Is your safety policy communicated effectively across all departments?
When was the last time the commercial department participated in a risk assessment or safety meeting?
The quotation below is by William Voss (past CEO of the Flight Safety Foundation). It encapsulates how an effective SMS should function and also demonstrates the need for good safety promotion across an organization:
“Go back to last year’s budget and see if you can find one single instance where information from your SMS caused you to spend money differently to how you had planned. If you cannot find an example of that in your operation you either have an extraordinarily brilliant budgeting process or your SMS is not delivering. I would bet on the latter.”
Beyond the Four Pillars of SMS
To ensure that your organization implements an effective safety management system, you need to be able to continuously monitor each aspect of your system and question whether your implemented processes are as effective as they could be.An effective SMS goes beyond these four principles. It encompasses numerous aspects that airlines must consider to ensure safety and compliance.
In November 2019, revision 1 to ICAO Annex 19 became extant. Consequently, your regulator is likely to start taking a deeper interest in your Safety Management System. Specifically, the need to demonstrate continuous improvement in safety and to show how you are achieving your stated safety objectives will come under increased scrutiny. This is because ICAO will start to audit NAAs to determine their compliance with the new Annex 19 which, in turn, will result in them taking a keener interest in your SMS. How you go about demonstrating that you are meeting these emerging requirements starts with your organisation’s safety policy and its objectives.
Progress made in the achievement of stated objectives should be monitored and reported on a regular basis. This is accomplished through the identification of safety performance indicators (SPIs), which are used to monitor and measure safety performance. Through the identification of SPIs, information obtained will allow senior management to be aware of the current situation and support decision- making, including determining whether actions are required to further mitigate safety risks to ensure the organisation achieves its safety goals.
Safety Performance Management Process
The generic safety performance management process is shown below in figure 1 (source: ICAO Document 9859)
Safety data is entered into the process via the Safety Data Capture and Processing System (SDCPS). By using appropriate analysis techniques, the captured safety data can be turned into useful information that can then be used to monitor the organisation’s safety performance. This is achieved by the establishment of appropriate safety objectives and their associated safety performance indicators (SPI). Additionally, captured and analysed safety information will allow management to identify any actions required to maintain a safe operation.
Unless the safety performance management process is communicated to the entire workforce, it will fail to meet its objectives. The safety promotion aspect cannot be overstated, it is vital that all personnel across all departments are informed and engaged in this important process.
Safety performance management helps the organisation to ask and to answer the four most important questions regarding safety of their operation:
What are the organisation’s top safety risks?
What does the organisation want to achieve in terms of safety and what are the top safety risks that need to be addressed? The organisation’s safety objectives.
How will the organisation know if it is making progress toward its safety objectives? Through SPIs, SPTs and, if practicable, safety triggers.
What safety data and safety information are needed to make informed safety decisions? Including the allocation of the organisation’s limited resources to manage and mitigate identified risks. SDCPS and safety analysis.
Safety Objectives
Safety objectives are the starting point for safety performance management systems. They are brief, high-level statements of the desired safety outcomes to be accomplished. Safety objectives provide direction to the organisation’s activities and should therefore be consistent with the safety policy that sets out the organisation’s high-level safety commitment. They are also useful to communicate safety priorities to the workforce. Establishing safety objectives provides strategic direction for the safety performance management process and provides a sound basis for safety related decision-making.
Safety objectives may be:
process-oriented: stated in terms of safe behaviours expected from operational personnel or the performance of actions implemented by the organisation to manage safety risk; (e.g. a year on year increase in voluntary reporting) or:
outcome-oriented: encompass actions and trends regarding containment of accidents or operational losses; (e.g. a reduction in the number of unstable approaches per 1000 sectors from 30 to 10 over the next 2 years).
As a general guide, safety objectives should be based on SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound; e.g. Increase the number of voluntary, safety reports by 100% over the next 4 years. Additionally, a mix of process and outcome objectives should be determined. When senior management define an organisation’s safety objectives, they need to consider the size and complexity of their operation and also the past performance in terms of safety. For example, management may already be aware of a number of areas of concern such as an increased number of runway incursions. The safety objective could be either process orientated such as the establishment of local runway safety teams at each airport in the next year or it could be outcome oriented e.g. a reduction in runway incursions from 10 every thousand movements to 2, over the next 12 months.
Safety Performance Indicators
In order to monitor progress towards achieving the stated safety objectives, an organisation must develop a means to measure performance towards these goals. This is usually in the form of Safety Performance Indicators (SPI). SPIs provide management with an overview of how well the organisation is progressing in achieving its stated safety objectives. There are a number of different types of SPI that could be considered (all are equally valid):
Quantitative and Qualitative SPIs Quantitative SPIs record a specific measure of an event type or issue. For example, it could be the number of unstable approaches each month. Usually, an organisation will wish to normalise these figures to maintain a “level playing field” month on month. For example, it might be that only half the number of flights are conducted in January compared to July and so the January total of unstable approaches is much less than July. To normalise this data, a more realistic measure might be the number of unstable approaches every 1000 flights. Use of quantitative SPIs is preferred from a safety management standpoint because they return measurable, numeric data that can be presented graphically at each monthly safety meeting.
Qualitative SPIs are equally valid if chosen correctly but they are more difficult to measure and report on. An example of a qualitative SPI could be the improvements in safety culture; this might be monitored by the use of staff surveys.
Leading and Lagging SPIs Lagging SPIs record things that have already happened. For example, the number of Altitude Busts per month. These SPIs record the more negative outcomes that the safety management team are trying to avoid. Lagging SPIs are very good indicators of long-term trends and they can be tailored to specific areas of concern. For example, the number of runway incursions at airfield XXX.
Lagging SPIs are also very useful for measuring the effectiveness of safety risk mitigations / controls e.g. number of runway incursions at airfield XXX following the installation of illuminated stop bars.
Leading SPIs tend to focus on processes or initiatives that have been implemented to improve safety in the organisation. An example of a leading SPI could be “the number of pilots who have completed Altitude Bust training in the simulator”.
It is important that, when setting SPIs, they are aligned with the organisation’s safety objectives. Furthermore, a mix of leading and lagging SPIs should be used. Primarily, quantitative SPIs will be used because they are easier to monitor and ultimately present during management meetings. Of most importance is that SPIs provide decision makers with relevant safety information such that any decisions made are based on reliable and defensible data. Furthermore, well thought out SPIs will allow for the development of meaningful Safety Performance Targets that will show progress towards the achievement of stated safety objectives.
When defining their SPIs, organisations should try to introduce a mix of leading and lagging indicators. However, the two types of SPI should not (if possible) be defined in isolation. There should be some form of link between the leading SPI and the lagging SPI. This is best explained by reference to the diagram at figure 2 (source: ICAO Document 9859).
Figure 2 shows the relationship between leading and lagging indicators. Of note is the fact that the main SPI (Number of runway excursions/1000 landings) is supported by two other SPIs. There is a leading SPI that accounts for the number of pilots who have received formal training in the issue. Additionally, the organisation has identified that a primary cause of runway excursions is unstable approaches. With this in mind, they have set this as an SPI which will serve as an indicator towards the primary event. These “indicator” issues are often referred to as “pre-cursor events”.
It is important that, when setting SPIs, they are aligned with the organisation’s safety objectives. Furthermore, a mix of leading and lagging SPIs should be used. Primarily, quantitative SPIs will be used because they are easier to monitor and ultimately present during management meetings. Of most importance is that SPIs provide decision makers with relevant safety information such that any decisions made are based on reliable and defensible data. Furthermore, well thought out SPIs will allow for the development of meaningful Safety Performance Targets that will show progress towards the achievement of stated safety objectives.
The contents of each SPI should include:
A description of what the SPI measures;
The purpose of the SPI (what it is intended to manage and who it is intended to inform);
The units of measurement and any requirements for its calculation;
Who is responsible for collecting, validating, monitoring, reporting and acting on the SPI (these may be staff from different parts of the organisation);
Where or how the data should be collected; and
The frequency of reporting, collecting, monitoring and analysis of the SPI data.
To support your SPI dashboard it is essential that the right safety management system software is in place. A well-designed and supported SMS software solution will help safety managers obtain information and data that can support their respective safety management priorities, and thereby provide the wider organisation with a set of SPIs that can be measured and monitored regularly. It will result in a safer airline organisation.
To align with ICAO Annex 19 many aviation industry organisations will have implemented aSafety Management System (SMS) of some description by now. This requirement was first muted in the initial edition of ICAO, Annex 19 which became applicable in November 2013. This first issue set the groundwork for each participating country to establish a State Safety Program (SSP) which, in turn, would require all service providers to implement a SMS. The implications of the revised Annex 19 are, however, more widespread. Read the rest of the article to learn more about three particular implications.
The second edition of Annex 19 was issued in July 2016 and is set to become applicable in November 2019. As part of this edition, the requirement for SMS implementation is extended to include organisations involved with the type design and/or manufacture of aircraft engines and propellers.
As with the first issue of Annex 19, ICAO have updated their Safety Manual (ICAO Document 9859) to Edition 4. This important document provides an expansive explanation of the requirements contained in Annex 19. Of note are the emerging requirements for organisations to implement safety data collection and processing systems alongside data analysis tools and suitable presentation applications such as safety dashboards.
1. Data Driven Decision Making (D3M)
Organisations will also be expected to determine, and monitor, a series of Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs) with their accompanying targets. These SPIs will be specific to each organisation but should be aligned to their safety policy and objectives. Examination of SPIs and their targets coupled with enhanced data analysis and presentation techniques will enable Data Driven Decision Making (D3M).
Many aviation occurrences have resulted, at least in part, from poor management decisions, which can result in wasted money, labour and resources. In the short term, the goal of safety decision-makers is to minimise poor outcomes and achieve effective results, and in the long term, contribute to the achievement of the organisation’s safety objectives.
A structured approach such as D3M will drive management to making decisions based on what the safety data is indicating. This requires trust in the safety performance management framework, if there is confidence in the Safety Data Collection and Processing System there will be trust in any decisions derived from them.
ICAO is keen that organisations are able to make management decisions based on reliable and comprehensive safety data using D3M processes.
2. Regulatory Changes
Regulators themselves will also be required to implement changes with respect to the new version of Annex 19. Specifically, they will be required to determine which sections of their jurisdiction require more detailed supervision as part of the Performance Based Oversight (PBO) requirements.
In effect, ICAO will require regulators to apportion their limited resource to those areas that require the most attention. The primary means by which an organisation can demonstrate to their regulators that they are meeting their safety targets and maintaining an Acceptable Level of Safety Performance is by suitable presentation of their SPIs and evidenced D3M. Can your current systems achieve this?
3. Audit Programme
Finally, it is worth noting that ICAO have stated that they intend to commence an audit program of all NAAs to determine their compliance with Revision 1 of Annex 19. This audit program was due to start in 2018 but is likely to be delayed until next November 2019 to coincide with the activation of Annex 19, revision 1.
If your regulator has not been overly strict with the enforcement of ICAO SARPs with respect to SMS implementation; you can expect a sudden change of gear next year!
Having spent a great deal of time and effort in establishing your organisation’s Safety Management System (SMS) it is now perhaps worth examining if it is functioning as first envisaged.
There are a number of reasons why a SMS might not deliver exactly what was first hoped for and as part of the ICAO requirement to ensure continuous improvement you should conduct a detailed analysis of your system to determine any potential shortfalls. Furthermore, revision 1 to ICAO Annex 19 is scheduled to become applicable on 7th November 2019 and this latest issue contains further requirements on both State Safety Programs (SSP) and service provider SMSs.
This article will focus on five of the main reasons why a SMS might not perform as expected or meet emerging requirements in the near future:
Limited Management Buy In: The airline industry is fiercely competitive, and many managers are faced with increasing demands from shareholders and senior executives to deliver more with less resource. Their efforts become focused in the wrong areas and the need to generate profit can lead to a complacent attitude towards safety. Quotes such as, “we have had no accidents, so we are safe” and “safety does not contribute directly to the bottom line” must be discouraged although this can be difficult to achieve.
Managers must embrace the SMS as part of their everyday business systems and they must be seen to encourage their employees to accept that safety is everyone’s responsibility. This does not just apply to the flight operation; the entire organisation must be fully engaged in the promotion and conduct of safe practice.
Ask yourself just how well engaged are your employees and are your safety policy and objectives clearly defined and freely available to all?
Poor Reporting Culture: Unless employees are encouraged (or even rewarded) to submit reports, the SMS will never improve. Employees are the front line of the business and they will be the first to note and, hopefully, report hazards or safety issues. A healthy reporting culture will result in an increase in voluntary reports that, in turn, will alert management to potential hazards that can be risk assessed as required. This can only be achieved by the establishment of clear guidelines as to what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour; sometimes referred to as a “just culture”.
It is very important that the workforce have trust in their management and believe that they can report issues without fear of reprisal. It is not easy to establish a good reporting culture and traditional mistrust between unions and management can influence negatively this important feature of the SMS. Initiatives such as the FAA’s Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) are helping to remove these traditional barriers with good effect. Of course, the ability to access and use suitable reporting mechanisms is vital. A well-designed reporting software package that is easy to use and available in both tablet and desktop formats (on and off-line) is considered a primary requirement of any SMS.
Is your culture supporting or hindering your safety management system?
Data Rich Information Poor. Many organisations will experience a sudden surge of voluntary reports from all aspects of the business if the SMS is implemented appropriately. Many of these reports will contain what may appear to be inconsequential information. However, it is only by examining these reports in detail that the safety teams may be able to determine underlying trends that could be indicative of something more sinister. These underlying trends are referred to as ‘Latent Issues’ and by identifying them in advance, it may be that action can be taken before they manifest as a serious incident or accident. It requires a considerable amount of time and resource to complete this type of analysis unless your SMS is supported by a software package designed to meet this need. A well-designed software package will help the safety team to extract the necessary information from the safety database to complete suitable trending and analytical processes. Having extracted the required data, there is then a need to present this information in a suitable format to help the decision makers reach the correct conclusions. This could be in the form of a dashboard or a management presentation/report.
Although your SMS will focus on safety reports, there are many other sources of safety information that need to be considered; these include, Line Operations Safety Audit, Safety Surveys, Internal and external audits. This can result in a huge amount of safety data, hence, the expression, “data rich but information poor”. This large amount of data, gathered from disparate parts of the business, must be classified, stored, retrieved, analysed and then presented to senior management in a format that can be understood.
Does your software package have the ability to store, extract and format the data for suitable analysis?
Poor Decision Making: It is often the case that poor decisions made in higher management can have detrimental effects on the safety performance of an organisation. Indeed, a focus on cost savings and regulatory compliance can result in an oversight or even complacency when it comes to safety. This is not intended to be a swipe at management it is merely an expression of the facts.
Unless management are presented with appropriate safety data that is digestible, accurate and complete it is highly unlikely that their decisions will be sound. This fact is pointed out very clearly in ICAO Document 9859 (4th Edition) which expounds the virtues of data driven decision making (D3M). In effect, when armed with the correct, useable information, managers can make informed safety-based decisions that are aligned to the organisation’s safety policy and desired objectives. D3M can assist with decision making in the following areas:
Changes that can be expected in statutory and regulatory requirements, emerging technologies or resources which may affect the organisation;
Potential changes in the needs and expectations of the aviation community and interested parties;
Various priorities that need to be established and managed (e.g. strategic, operational, resources);
New skills, competencies, tools and even change management processes that may be needed to implement new decision(s);
Risks that need to be assessed, managed or minimised;
Existing services, products and processes that currently provide the most value for interested parties; and
Evolving demands for new services, products and processes.
Unless your software package can present meaningful safety information to higher management, it is unlikely that they will be able to use D3M techniques and the knock-on effect could be an erosion in safety margins that go unnoticed until a serious event takes place.
Is your SMS providing the data in a format to senior management so that important safety decisions can be made?
Establishment of Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs): It is now a requirement for organisations to monitor their own safety performance and to demonstrate that they achieve an acceptable level of safety performance (and continuous improvement of the SMS) to their regulators.
The accepted means of achieving this is to establish and monitor suitable safety performance indicators (SPI) and their associated safety performance targets (SPT) that are aligned to the business safety policy and objectives. SPIs and SPTs should be defined using the SMART criteria i.e. they should be: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound.
Whilst it can be relatively easy to define SPIs, it is more problematic to monitor them and then present the information in a useable format for management. Obviously, software can help but this process will require a significant drawdown on safety team resource unless the software is particularly well designed. Due to the work effort required, it is often the case that SPIs are either poorly defined or not monitored sufficiently. Not only will the presentation of SPI data enable better D3M, it will also assist with your regulator’s requirements for performance-based oversight.
Can your safety management system software achieve this requirement?
The above list is far from exhaustive, but it does highlight some of the more common issues that organisations experience when establishing their SMS. A common theme is poorly thought out software support. Unless your chosen provider understands the emerging requirements that will become extant in November 2019, it is likely that your SMS will fail to meet the standards needed to satisfy your regulator. Furthermore, your management decision-making capability might not be focused in the appropriate areas to result in enterprise wide, improving safety performance.
Both A350 and B787 Dreamliner are swiftly becoming the world’s most technologically advanced airplanes, produced respectively by Airbus (Europe) and Boeing (USA).
But what makes these rival aircrafts so revolutionary? Here are some comparative features to get you thinking:
Lower Maintenance Costs
The 787 and A350 are the first large commercial aircraft to be constructed extensively from carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). CFRP is more durable as it doesn’t corrode to the same extent as traditional aluminium used in older planes, translating into lower maintenance costs for airlines.
Improved fuel efficiency
The use of CFRP and other composites help the A350 and the 787 to be lighter than its predecessors. This, combined with unparalleled engine efficiency, make the overall cost of flying cheaper than before. The newer engines on both the A350 and 787 provide up to 25% improved fuel efficiency and 15 % less CO2 compared to older generations.
Better passenger experience
Both the 787 and the A350 have far quieter cabins than conventional aircraft, thanks to engine design developments from Rolls Royce and GE. The A350 specifically has the quietest cabin of any twin-aisle aircraft, with a typical noise level of 57 decibels – around the same as a normal conversation.
Ultra-long range
The 787 and the A350 have impressive range, both planes can travel at least 15,000 kilometres without stopping – The same as travelling from London to New York 2.5 times without stopping to refuel. This astonishing range is why airlines are now deploying the 787 and A350 on the world’s longest routes.
With all these benefits, both the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 are without a doubt revolutionary in their design. However, as such, aircraft designs have become increasingly complicated and require constant review and updates to ensure safety, reliability and utility.
Learn how our leading document management solution, DocuNet can help your publishing department to manage increasingly complex Airbus and Boeing documents.
The Airbus A350 XWB has revolutionized modern aviation since its commercial debut three years ago. With over 142 deliveries to 17 global airlines, including Iberia and British Airways, the A350 is a game-changer.
But what makes this aircraft stand out? Here are 10 key facts about the Airbus A350 and why document management is critical for new fleet operations.
Impressive Size and Range
The A350-1000 stretches over 240 feet, nearly the length of a football field.
With a range of 8,000+ nautical miles, the A350-800 can fly between London and New York 2.5 times without refueling.
Advanced Materials
Over 70% of the A350’s airframe is made from advanced materials, including 53% composites, titanium, and aluminium alloys, making it lighter and more fuel-efficient.
Powerful Engines
The Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines on the A350-1000 produce 97,000 lbs of thrust, ensuring exceptional performance.
Fuel Efficiency
The A350 delivers up to 25% fuel savings compared to previous models, making it a cost-effective choice for airlines.
Innovative Lighting
A full-LED lighting system offers over 16 million color options, enhancing passenger comfort and mood.
Cutting-Edge Avionics
The A350’s avionics can operate over 40 functions, surpassing the A380’s 23-function capability.
Simplified Fuel Tanks
Unlike most commercial aircraft with eight fuel tanks, the A350 XWB has only three, located in the fuselage and wings.
High Price Tag
Purchasing an A350 will set you back approximately $290 million, reflecting its advanced technology and capabilities.
Passenger Well-Being
The A350 offers greater cabin space, flying times of up to 19 hours, and improved air quality for enhanced passenger comfort.
Evolution of the A350
Originally dubbed the “A330-lite,” the A350 project began in 2004, culminating in a state-of-the-art aircraft that redefines air travel.
The Importance of Document Management for Airbus Fleets
Introducing a new fleet like the Airbus A350 requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to document management. From operational efficiency to compliance and safety, managing Airbus manuals is a complex but essential task.
Challenges of Manual Management
Maintaining structured XML data for Airbus manuals can overwhelm in-house teams.
With Airbus releasing updates up to three times a year, revision peaks can lead to errors and delays.
The Solution
A robust document management system simplifies the process, ensuring your manuals are updated accurately and efficiently. By leveraging the right tools, airlines can maintain compliance, reduce risks, and keep their fleets ready for takeoff.
Why the Airbus A350 is a Game-Changer
The Airbus A350 combines cutting-edge technology, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort, making it a top choice for airlines worldwide. However, successful fleet integration relies on effective document management to ensure operational readiness and compliance.
New technology is revolutionizing air travel across the globe, making flights more efficient, eco-friendly, and secure. From improving flight planning and operations to enhancing the passenger experience, technology is transforming the aviation industry.
In this post, we’ll explore current technologies driving positive change and glimpse into future innovations that could make air travel even more attractive.
1. The Potential of Blockchain in Airline Operations
Perhaps the biggest technological buzz in the air travel industry is centred on Blockchain technology, the system that powers the secure, virtual currency Bitcoin. Described as a ‘secure digital ledger of transactions and agreements’, Blockchain offers tamper-proof data that can be managed and shared via authorised access.
Blockchain could be a game changer for flight operators, which can use it to transform their maintenance and safety regimes. Data entered into the blockchain would allow companies to track where every part on a plane came from and exactly who had handled it, and when – bringing security and safety to new levels.
For passengers, blockchain offers seamless travel experiences by integrating biometric ID verification with check-in, baggage handling, and passport control—eliminating counterfeiting risks and reducing processing times.
2. Wearable Technology in Aviation for Enhanced Efficiencies
Wearable technology trials have already been undertaken by some airlines, both for cabin crew and engineers. Uniforms of the former include LEDs to provide additional lighting in an emergency and to display important information like flight numbers. Similar lighting in ground staff jacket cuffs can be used to help with aircraft movement.
Engineers can benefit from LEDs in jacket hoods to illuminate work areas and leave both of their hands free for inspection and maintenance. In-built cameras and microphones allow remotely based colleagues to help troubleshoot technical issues, while air quality sensors allow wearers to monitor their work environment. While relatively simple innovations, the net result is to improve safety and make maintenance and repairs faster – delivering efficiencies to the flight operator.
3. Maintenance Drones for Faster Inspections
Some airlines are deploying maintenance drones to speed up aircraft inspections and improve efficiency. These drones:
Assess lightning-strike damage in under 30 minutes (compared to manual inspections taking 4–6 hours).
Scan aircraft fuselages for wear and tear, reducing downtime.
Some analysts predict drone images of aircraft sections could be compared with online image databases, allowing defects to be detected automatically.
Could soon be used to deliver spare parts, accelerating repairs and minimizing delays.
4. More Efficient and Sustainable Flight Routes
Flight operators now make use of new technology to optimize their routes and cut their emissions. For example, on a range of services Emirates is using technology that optimises routes for the prevailing weather, saving fuel and emissions – not to mention getting passengers to their destination quicker.
Future developments are even more exciting, with a solar-powered plane already successfully completing a round-the-world flight. It’s a big step towards reducing airlines’ reliance on fossil fuels, but it is likely to be many years before we see the world’s first solar-powered commercial aircraft.
5. Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) and Document Management
Pilots began to use mobile devices as electronic flight bags in 2011, meaning they could access e-documents rather than relying on the hard copies of the charts, flight manuals and other information they used before, Electronic devices quickly helped pilots to become more productive and reduced aircraft weight by a significant degree.
That said, airlines can still find it expensive, time-consuming and difficult to manage the huge number of documents that pilots and cabin crew need (and are required by regulators to have). Even if an airline has invested in document management software, they still have to spend huge amounts of time each year managing electronic document libraries and making sure that all information is correct. For example, aircraft manuals may change every 2-3 months, and because qualified pilots have to spend time making sure they are correct it takes them away from more productive and profitable duties.
Today this problem is frequently solved by outsourcing. Solutions such as the DocuNet airline document management system (now used by more than 140 airlines worldwide) helps streamline compliance by:
Providing pilots and cabin crews with instant access to up-to-date operational documents.
Ensuring compliance-checked updates reach all users simultaneously.
Reducing costs—airlines save an average of £500K per year for fleets of 100+ aircraft by transitioning to digital document management.
The Future of Aviation and Technology
Technology in aviation continues to evolve, offering new efficiencies, improved safety, and enhanced passenger experiences. Airlines that embrace innovations such as blockchain, AI-driven flight optimization, and advanced document management will lead the industry into a more secure, efficient, and sustainable future.
