Safety and Health in Aviation
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Aviation Human Resources Management course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Safety and Health in Aviation Glossary #
Safety and Health in Aviation Glossary
Airworthiness #
The state in which an aircraft meets the requirements for safe operation. An aircraft must be deemed airworthy by the appropriate aviation authority before it can be flown.
Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) #
A systematic approach to managing safety, including the necessary organizational structures, accountabilities, policies, and procedures. SMS aims to proactively identify and mitigate safety risks.
Crew Resource Management (CRM) #
A set of training programs designed to improve communication, teamwork, and decision-making among flight crews. CRM helps prevent human error in aviation operations.
Emergency Response Plan (ERP) #
A detailed plan outlining procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency, such as an aircraft accident or incident. ERPs ensure a coordinated and effective response to emergencies.
Flight Safety #
The practice of minimizing the risks associated with aviation operations to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the public. Flight safety includes measures to prevent accidents and incidents.
Hazard #
A potential source of harm or danger that could result in an accident or incident. Hazards in aviation include equipment failures, weather conditions, human factors, and other factors that can compromise safety.
Human Factors #
The study of how humans interact with systems, equipment, and environments. Human factors play a crucial role in aviation safety, as they can influence human performance and decision-making.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) #
A specialized agency of the United Nations that sets international standards and regulations for civil aviation. ICAO works to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation.
Just Culture #
A culture in which individuals are encouraged to report safety concerns and incidents without fear of reprisal. Just culture promotes open communication and transparency in safety management.
Line Operations Safety Audit (LOSA) #
A voluntary safety program in which trained observers monitor flight deck operations to identify and address safety issues. LOSA helps organizations improve safety performance.
Maintenance Error Decision Aid (MEDA) #
A system designed to analyze maintenance errors in aviation and identify contributing factors. MEDA helps organizations prevent maintenance-related accidents and incidents.
Organizational Culture #
The shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape an organization's attitudes and practices. Organizational culture can influence safety performance in aviation organizations.
Runway Incursion #
An incident in which an aircraft or vehicle enters an active runway without permission. Runway incursions pose a serious safety risk and can lead to collisions between aircraft.
Safety Management System (SMS) #
An integrated approach to managing safety in aviation organizations. SMS includes policies, procedures, and processes to identify, assess, and mitigate safety risks.
Threat and Error Management (TEM) #
A proactive approach to managing threats and errors in aviation operations. TEM helps flight crews identify and mitigate risks before they lead to accidents or incidents.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) #
An aircraft that is operated without a human pilot on board. UAVs are commonly used for various purposes, including surveillance, photography, and delivery.
Visual Flight Rules (VFR) #
Rules that govern the operation of aircraft in visual meteorological conditions. Pilots flying under VFR must maintain visual contact with the ground and other aircraft to ensure safe operations.
Wake Turbulence #
Turbulent air currents produced by an aircraft's wings as it moves through the air. Wake turbulence can pose a hazard to other aircraft flying in close proximity.
eXtended Envelope Training (EET) #
A training program designed to familiarize pilots with the flight characteristics of an aircraft beyond its normal operating envelope. EET helps pilots respond effectively to unexpected situations.
Yield Management #
A pricing strategy used by airlines to maximize revenue by adjusting fares based on demand. Yield management aims to optimize seat utilization and profitability.
Zulu Time #
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), the standard time reference used in aviation and other industries worldwide. Zulu time eliminates the confusion of time zones when coordinating international flights.