CLOSING THE SAFETY GAP: A FRAMEWORK FOR AVIATION MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

Limited resources and tailored advice frequently make it difficult for small U.S. aviation maintenance companies to adopt formal Safety Management Systems (SMS). This paper offers a scalable SMS framework meant for Part 145 maintenance companies with under 50 employees. Examining 4–6 small repair stations via document analysis, safety performance data, and incident records, a multi-case qualitative method was used. Common obstacles the study found hindering SMS adoption in small businesses were financial limitations, regulatory complexity, technical constraints, and cultural issues. Important topics are disparities in hazard reporting, dependence on informal safety practices, and insufficient safety-focused staff members. Building on these results and drawing from systems theory and change management concepts, the paper offers a four-tier SMS model (Leadership Commitment; Simplified Reporting & Documentation; Integrated Safety Training; Progressive Safety Performance Monitoring) that scales to an organization’s size and maturity. Guiding small maintenance providers through incremental SMS implementation, a phased road map from initial start-up to full institutionalization is suggested. Expert Delphi review and a pilot implementation confirmed the framework, which showed better safety communication and proactive risk management. This scalable SMS system allows even the smallest maintenance companies to develop a positive safety culture and methodically control risk, so addressing the gap between large and small businesses.