Aeronautical maintenance is a critical pillar of operational safety. However, a study carried out by INEC indicates that more than 70% of maintenance incidents have a human component.. Fatigue, poor communication, time pressure or lack of situational awareness are just some of the factors that can compromise safety.
To reduce risks, the aeronautical industry has evolved towards two major complementary approaches:
- The Security Management System (SMS).
- The integration of human factors in training, procedures and organizational culture.
In this article we will see why the combination of both elements is key to minimizing errors and guaranteeing safety in aircraft maintenance.
What is the Safety Management System (SMS) in aeronautical maintenance?
The Security Management System (SMS) is a structured approach to managing risks and promoting a proactive safety culture. It is not just about complying with regulations, but about establishing an organizational framework that Identify hazards, assess risks, and encourage continuous improvement.
The main components of the SMS according to ICAO and EASA are:
- Security policy: management commitment and clear objectives.
- Risk management: identification, analysis and mitigation of hazards.
- Security guarantee: monitoring, audits, feedback.
- Safety promotion: training, communication and culture.
In aeronautical maintenance, SMS makes it possible to detect patterns of human error, improve team coordination and design safer procedures.
Main human factors affecting safety in aircraft maintenance
Human factors refer to how people’s capabilities, limitations, and behaviors influence safety and performance.
A widely used framework for identifying human risks is the 12 most common human factors (Dirty Dozen):
- Lack of communication
- Complacency
- Lack of knowledge
- Distraction
- Lack of teamwork
- Fatigue
- Lack of resources
- Pressure
- Lack of situational awareness
- Poorly defined rules
- Stress
- Lack of assertiveness
Each of these factors can lead to maintenance errors with serious consequences.
How SMS and human factors are integrated for safety in aircraft maintenance
True value comes when SMS incorporates human factors management into all maintenance operations.
- Continuous training in human factors for Part-145 technicians.
- Confidential reporting programs that foster a culture of open communication.
- Analysis of incidents that include human causes, not just technical ones.
- Risk assessments that consider workload, fatigue and physical environment.
- Structured communication tools (checklists, briefings, turnover logs).
- Leadership in operational safety that promotes trust and avoids a punitive culture.
Integrating these elements turns SMS into a living system, focused on people and not only on processes.
Best practices for safe aircraft maintenance
- Implement recurring training in human factors.
- Adopt clear shift transfer procedures.
- Monitor fatigue and work schedules.
- Use standardized checklists for critical tasks.
- Promote a culture of reporting without retaliation.
- Carry out internal audits that include human aspects.
- Design ergonomic and safe work environments.
- Promote security leadership at all levels.
That’s why SMS and human factors management must go hand in hand. An effective SMS includes not only procedures and protocols, but also proper training so that aeronautical technicians and personnel understand how their behavior and decisions impact safety. This is where our specialized training in aviation maintenance and human factors comes in.
In our training we teach how to integrate SMS into the day-to-day maintenance operations and how to effectively manage risks related to fatigue, communication and decision making. These trainings are designed to ensure that professionals not only follow procedures, but also develop a comprehensive safety mindset, crucial for error prevention.
If you are looking to improve safety and efficiency in aircraft maintenance, our SMS and human factors training is your best option!
