A safety framework based on global standards, cooperation and communication, and effective data usage needs to be fostered by aviation safety stakeholders to maintain safe skies, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
IATA recently urged aviation safety stakeholders to recommit to their security and safety framework efforts through key points of recommendation.
“Safety is the top priority for all involved in aviation—and aviation is the safest form of long-distance travel,” Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s director general and CEO, said. “Last year there were over 40 million safe flights. That’s an achievement that we can all be proud of. And it was made possible by a framework that incorporates respect for global standards, cooperation and the value of data.”
Speaking specifically of air traffic accidents, de Juniac referenced a recent study showing that, of nearly 1,000 aviation accidents over the past decade, only 300 had reports available.
To learn from an accident, we need reports that are complete, accessible and timely,” de Juniac said. “We also need states to fully respect the standards and processes enshrined in global agreements for participation in the investigation by all specified parties.”
In addition to increased and improved data understanding, he also said that increased dialogue between regulators and industry leaders is crucial to maintaining current and implementing new standards and regulations.
“We have a common interest in safe and secure flights. Yet last month the US and the UK announced that large electronic devices would be banned from passenger cabins on some flights from the Middle East and North Africa,” de Juniac said.
“There was no consultation with airlines and the measure challenged public confidence with inconsistencies, while the safety concerns over concentrations of lithium batteries in the aircraft hold have not been adequately considered or addressed. The learnings from this are many—governments need to share information, they need to consult with industry, and they need to support the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as it develops a global aviation security plan,” de Juniac added.