In a recent AIN article, Bryan Burns, president and CEO of the Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF), shared insights on how the FAA’s new Safety Management System (SMS) mandate for Part 135 operators will impact the industry.
Burns expressed support for the rule, highlighting its potential to enhance safety across various sectors of aviation, but also emphasized the need for operators to approach SMS implementation thoughtfully. With just under 36 months to comply, operators should start now to ensure they meet the 2027 deadline.
Burns raised a key concern about how the FAA will evaluate and assess SMS compliance once an operator submits its Declaration of Compliance. He suggests operators not only focus on building a robust SMS but also work closely with the FAA Flight Standards District Offices (FSDOs) to foster a collaborative approach.
From the article:
“Much like the success of ACSF’s ASAP program, I suggest an operator retain a third party like ACSF to not only help with the implementation process but also assist in educating the FAA Flight Standards District Offices (FSDOs). Through its organizational-based ASAP program, the ACSF has established relationships and trust with over 65 FSDOs throughout the U.S.”
The ACSF offers a range of services designed to ease the SMS implementation process, particularly through its Membership Assistance Program (MAP) and the ACSF Industry Audit Standard Lite (IAS Lite) program. Both initiatives provide practical, scalable solutions for operators looking to comply with FAA Part 5 regulations.
The Membership Assistance Program offers tailored guidance and resources, making it easier for operators to understand the SMS framework, allocate resources effectively, and ensure compliance with FAA regulations. It also helps organizations cultivate a safety culture from the top down—an essential element for SMS success.
The ACSF Industry Audit Standard (IAS) and Industry Audit Standard Lite (IAS Lite) program provides a streamlined auditing process for smaller operators, ensuring they meet industry safety standards without the complexity or cost associated with larger-scale operations. By undergoing a third-party audit, operators can not only align their SMS with FAA expectations but also gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
For those just beginning their SMS journey, these ACSF programs are invaluable. They offer the tools and support necessary to develop an effective safety culture, achieve compliance, and ultimately enhance the safety of both crews and passengers. As Burns noted, “Without safety as a core value of an organization, the SMS program will not succeed.”
With the new FAA rule on the horizon, engaging with ACSF’s programs can provide operators with the expertise and support needed to meet regulatory requirements while establishing a safety-first approach to their operations.
Read the full article on ainonline.com. Contact ACSF to learn more about our SMS tools, MAP and IAS Lite.
