The Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP) presents the global strategy for continuous improvement of aviation safety.* We’ll examine applications of Lean and Six Sigma in aviation safety and finish with a video on the history of aviation safety.

Source*

 

Lean Six Sigma in Aviation Safety

In a paper titled “Lean Six-Sigma in Aviation Safety: An implementation guide for measuring aviation system’s safety performance” authors Ilias Panagopoulos, Chris Atkin, and Ivan Sikora introduce a conceptual framework that could improve the aviation safety performance measurement process. The methodology adapts and combines quality management tools, a leading indicators program, and Lean Six Sigma methodology.

The paper includes:

  • Researchers’ Conceptual Framework
  • Safety-Performance Indicator Lean Sigma (PILS) Model – Ishikawa Diagram
  • Safety Management System Performance – Ishikawa Diagram
  • Phase 1 Implementation Guide for Measuring System’s Safety Performance
  • Voice of the Business for Aviation Safety
  • Indicative Safety Performance Indicators and Associated Metrics
  • Phase 2 Implementation Guide for Measuring System’s Safety Performance

To access the paper, copy and paste the following link into your browser:

 

Six Sigma Applied to Flight Operations Quality Assurance

In a case study titled “Six Sigma Applied to Flight Operations Quality Assurance: An Exemplar Case Study” authors Alan J. Stolzer, Han Wu, and Carl Halford introduce a method to enhance current Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) methodology using Six Sigma.

NOTE: Improved quality leads to improved safety and productivity. Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) is a proactive safety program.

You can read the case study here.

 

DMAIC Applied to Improve Airport Safety Performance

In a paper titled “DMAIC Approach to Improve on Safety Performance Using Safety Management System in Kuwait International Airport” authors Suat Kasap and others discuss a DMAIC approach to improve safety performance using a Safety Management System (SMS)

The paper includes:

  • Kuwait International Airport (KIA) SMS Reporting Process Swim Lane Flowchart
  • KIA Brainstorming Hazard Identification: Mind Map
  • Cause and Effect Diagram for Less Safety
  • KIA Sections and Hazards Categories
  • Summary of KIA Hazards Assessments
  • Sample Fault Tree Analyses (FTAs)
    • Burned Skin Caused by Chemical Hazards
    • Airplane Collapse due to Flat Tires Caused by Physical Hazards
    • High Weather Temperature of Extreme Hazard
    • Radiation Hazard
    • Ergonomic Hazards
  • Accident Risk Level
  • KIA Hazards Prevention Checklist
  • KIA Policies and Rules Checklist for Controlling Hazards
  • Corrective Action Plan Form for Hazards Reporting and Supervision
  • Management Section for Personal and Vehicle Safety

You can read the paper here.

 

The History of Aviation Safety

Get an overview of the history of aviation safety in a video from Airbus.

 

You can watch the video here.

 

 

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