FAA SMS principles focus on a systematic approach to managing aviation safety for airlines and airports. FAA SMS tenets incorporate the necessary organizational structure, accountabilities, policies, procedures and business processes. FAA SMS follows closely the ICAO aviation safety management requirements. FAA SMS should also include provisions that organizations must establish clear lines of aviation safety accountability throughout the airport or airline organization, which must extend up to senior management levels.
Aviation organizations that fall under FAA SMS guidelines, whether they are large or small, share all the same requirements of aviation SMS management. FAA SMS requirements will cover airlines, airports, maintenance repair and overhaul and fixed based operators. Managers of these aviation organizations will continue to focus on their existing tasks, such as financing, budgeting, communicating and allocating resources, and so forth. Managing aviation safety under the FAA SMS requirements will also be added to their existing list of business processes.
Managing aviation safety is performed in much the same was as other traditional business processes. Aviation SMS training is essential for responsible personnel, including aviation safety managers and/or aviation safety officers (however you like to call these safety professionals). Aviation SMS training that cover the FAA SMS requirements should include all other staff involved with the aviation SMS implementation.