July 28, 2024

No one wants to read an article about compliance, but everyone wants and needs you to be compliant.

Compliance in aviation means adhering to numerous laws and regulations that govern the industry. For those holding an AME/AMT license, compliance means following detailed task cards, Aircraft Maintenance Manuals (AMM), Structural Repair Manuals (SRM), and other specific work instructions. These documents are not suggestions but mandatory guidelines that ensure the safety and airworthiness of aircraft.

Every task card and manual are a result of extensive research, testing, and validation. They encompass collective knowledge and best practices that have been developed over decades. By following the instructions to the letter, aviation professionals ensure that aircraft operate safely and efficiently. Non-compliance is not an option. It compromises not only the safety of the aircraft but also the trust of the flying public.

The expectations of the flying public and our families are clear: they demand and deserve the highest levels of safety. Passengers trust that every flight will be operated with the utmost care and precision. This trust is built on the industry's unwavering commitment to safety and compliance.

Safety and compliance in aviation are intertwined values that form the foundation of the industry's operations. Aviation professionals uphold the public's trust by adhering to rigorous standards and continuously striving for improvement. The commitment to safety is to the well-being of every passenger and crew member, ensuring that aviation remains a reliable and safe mode of transportation for all, including our families and friends.

Our industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and emerging safety data. This dynamic nature demands that safety practices continually grow and adapt.

Although maintenance-related accidents have remained low, it is never zero. One skipped step can mean life and death for those onboard. Your License is governed by the government, not the company you work for. Don’t risk your livelihood.

Please use your carrier’s Safety Reporting System (SRS) when you feel there are safety or compliance concerns while performing your job. In addition to your carrier’s SRS, the FAA Hotline may be used to report aviation safety concerns: https://hotline.faa.gov/.

In Solidarity,

Thomas Wiggins
National Safety & Standards Director