Safety in aviation: A sobering reminder…
Recent events in the aviation industry have highlighted the enduring importance of vigilance, reflection, and continuous improvement in safety. Two separate incidents: a fire onboard a Sukhoi SuperJet after landing in Turkey; and the crash of a Swiftair Boeing 737-400, operating on behalf of DHL, near Vilnius, serve as stark reminders that while aviation may be statistically the safest mode of transport, it remains a high-risk industry requiring constant attention to detail and unwavering commitment to safety.
In Turkey, video footage of the SuperJet evacuation showed passengers escaping while carrying personal belongings. While all on board appear to have survived, this behaviour is a sobering example of how seconds in an evacuation can mean the difference between life and death. Stopping to retrieve bags delays the evacuation process, creates bottlenecks, and endangers everyone involved. This incident underscores the need for continued efforts to educate passengers about the critical importance of adhering to crew instructions, reminders that safety procedures are designed not as mere formalities but to save lives.
The crash of the Swiftair Boeing 737-400, still under investigation, is another stark reminder of the complexity of aviation. Whether caused by technical, environmental, or human factors, the incident reinforces the reality that safety is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Incidents like these must serve as opportunities to learn and adapt.
People are the heart of Aviation Safety
At the core of any safety system are the people who implement it: pilots, cabin crew, engineers, mechanics, air traffic controllers, and countless others. Safety is primarily achieved by people. Technology and procedures are vital, but it is human vigilance, judgment, and collaboration that make aviation as safe as it is today.
This human-centric focus also means recognizing that even the best of us are fallible. Mistakes can happen, and when they do, a just culture is essential to ensuring they are treated as opportunities to improve rather than occasions for blame. Transparency and learning are critical to preventing future incidents.
Speculation, especially in the early stages of an investigation, can lead to misinformation and harm those affected. Respect for the families, colleagues, and investigators involved should guide our actions and words. Let the process uncover the facts, and let those facts drive meaningful change.
A reminder for pilots
In light of these incidents, it is important to revisit key responsibilities and resources available to pilots:
- Occurrence Reporting: As per EU Regulation 376/2014, pilots are required to file an occurrence report through their company’s reporting system following an incident or accident. This is a vital step in ensuring the data needed for safety improvement is captured, analyzed, and acted upon. Reporting is not just a regulatory obligation; it is a cornerstone of aviation safety.
- Peer Support Programmes: Beyond technical reporting, it is equally important to prioritize mental health and emotional well-being. Most airlines have implemented Peer Support Programmes, specifically designed to help pilots (and sometimes Cabin Crews) deal with issues such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or any other challenges that may arise after an incident. These programmes provide a safe and confidential space for pilots to seek help from trained peers who understand the pressures of the profession.
- Support from BeCA: BeCA is also here to provide assistance in the critical first hours following an incident or accident. Whether it’s legal guidance, procedural support, or just someone to talk to, BeCA’s resources are available to help pilots navigate these challenging situations.
Looking forward
Safety in aviation is built on the foundation of collective effort, shared responsibility, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Every incident, no matter how tragic, is an opportunity to learn, evolve, and strengthen the safety net for all.
As professionals, let us remember that while statistics may be reassuring, they are not an excuse for complacency. Safety requires vigilance, empathy, and collaboration, and above all, a recognition that it is the people in this industry who make it what it is.
Together, by supporting one another and embracing every opportunity to learn, we can continue to make aviation safer for everyone.
Article by Maxime Wauters