JULY 2024AEROSPACEDEFENSEREVIEW.COM8In the aviation industry, reducing human error in aircraft maintenance, repair, and operations is paramount. The gravity of this issue is more pronounced when viewed through the lens of those who have narrowly averted catastrophic incidents resulting from human mistakes. I count myself among those who have experienced such close calls, and this incident has profoundly shaped my approach to leadership and supervision within my sphere of responsibility. It is a poignant reminder of the critical necessity for rigorous training, safety protocols, and continuous vigilance within the aviation industry.When I was a student pilot, two engineers responsible for conducting a routine inspection on the training aircraft I was flying missed a crucial step in the duplicate inspection process for the aircraft's flight controls. This led to a loss of pitch control shortly after take-off. Drawing upon the comprehensive training I had received from the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program, I managed to regain control of the aircraft by adjusting engine power to manipulate the pitch attitude. The flying skills instilled in me through the program, along with the guidance of the air traffic controller on duty, enabled me to safely return to the airport and execute a safe landing without further incident.In my role as a leader, I share this personal experience with the engineers in my team to underscore the significance of safety and integrity in mitigating human error in the domain of aircraft maintenance, repair, and operations.Human error looms as a constant threat in aviation, affecting individuals at every echelon of the industry. Even the most seasoned professionals may, on occasion, err. Recognizing this reality is the initial step toward crafting comprehensive strategies to minimize these errors. A minor oversight in maintenance or repair has the In My OpinionSAFEGUARDING AVIATION: MITIGATING HUMAN ERROR IN AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE, REPAIR, AND OPERATIONSBy Joanna Kolokythas, Line Maintenance Manager, National Jet Express
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