Change Management as A Road Map for Safety Management System Implementation in Aviation Operations: Focusing on Risk Management and Operational Effectiveness

Abstract

This paper focuses on providing a theoretical answer to the question, how can an air carrier effectively implement a Safety Management System (SMS) in its operations? The core assumptions of this study are that (i) the value of a well-structured SMS in enhancing air carrier operational safety is axiomatic; (ii) Risk management is an integral part of safety management systems in aviation to provide effective aviation operations. We present a road map for change management, risk management and their utility and application in transforming a non-SMS compliant system to an SMS one using change management principles. Keywords: Aviation Operations, Airline Management, Change Management, Risk, Risk Management, Safety Systems.