Introduction
This Part 91 flight department is comprised of 13 professionals and three aircraft. Under the leadership of Richard Butler, a Captain who joined the flight department in 2016 and became the Safety Captain in 2020, the department embarked on a comprehensive safety initiative aimed at enhancing its operational safety framework.
Background
Prior to Butler's arrival, the team consisted of seasoned professionals relying on personal skills to ensure safety. Drawing from his Navy experience, Butler recognized the need for a more structured safety program to fortify the department's long-term safety standing. He set the ambitious goal of achieving ISBAO certification, which required a cultural shift in how safety was perceived and managed.
Selection of SMS System
After evaluating various Safety Management System (SMS) providers, Butler opted for Polaris Aero’s VOCUS Standard SMS, complementing the existing FlightRisk application linked to their flight planning software.
"This was a great place for us to start," said Butler. The VOCUS system offered a foundational platform for developing a structured safety program, essential for achieving their safety objectives.
Implementation and Training
The implementation of VOCUS SMS Standard coincided with a refresh of operations manuals and safety policies. Butler utilized the eLearning modules provided by VOCUS to engage his team, educating them on the principles and practices of SMS. This training not only conveyed the value of SMS but also clarified how it would be operationalized within the VOCUS framework.
Achievements and Next Steps
Following the successful attainment of ISBAO Stage 1 certification, the team built momentum towards Stage 2. Butler recognized that utilizing VOCUS SMS Enhanced features, particularly the built-in checklist, significantly simplified the auditing process toward ISBAO certification.
"Upgrading to VOCUS SMS Enhanced and implementing the checklists turned out to be a tremendous time saver," he noted. The flight department utilizes checklists for internal and external audits across the organization.
Recently, the flight department transitioned from a Fixed Base Operator (FBO) to their own hangar. This move necessitated a change management effort, which VOCUS SMS facilitated effectively.
"We captured many lessons learned, revamped our procedures, and even expanded our Maintenance team by proactively practicing change management in VOCUS," Butler shared.
Enhancing Pilot Safety
From a pilot's perspective, the department leveraged safety reports to create FlightRisk custom rules that enhance awareness of critical airport details. These rules prepare pilots for potential hazards, such as uncontrolled airfields or high recreational traffic, improving overall flight safety.
Advanced Safety Programs
With sustained progress, Butler aimed for the next step: the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP). By integrating the ASAP module into VOCUS SMS and establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the local Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), the program gained momentum. The pilots welcomed this initiative, perceiving it as a valuable contribution to safety culture.
Leadership Engagement
Butler expressed appreciation for how VOCUS has streamlined the development of their safety program.
"VOCUS provides objective monthly data that enables me to conduct focused safety meetings with our team and leadership," he stated. This structured approach has fostered engagement from company leadership, highlighting their commitment to safety management.
Conclusion
Butler’s flight department safety journey exemplifies the potential of the VOCUS platform. With its versatile applications and scalable features, the platform meets the immediate needs of clients while offering pathways for future enhancements.
"We’ve been very happy with VOCUS and the support from the Polaris Aero team," Butler concluded, underscoring the successful partnership in fostering a robust safety culture.
