What is the main goal of safety management systems (SMS) in aviation?

The main goal of safety management systems (SMS) in aviation is to reduce aviation accidents and incidents. SMS is designed to identify hazards, manage risks, and ensure a proactive approach to safety within the organization. By implementing a comprehensive framework for monitoring, assessing, and mitigating risks, SMS fosters a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This systemic approach helps organizations systematically enhance their safety performance, thereby minimizing the likelihood of accidents and incidents.

While compliance with regulations is a component of an effective SMS, the overarching objective is to enhance safety outcomes rather than merely meeting regulatory standards. Similarly, although operational efficiency and passenger comfort are important factors in aviation operations, they are not the primary focus of an SMS. Instead, these aspects can be seen as secondary benefits that emerge from a robust safety system dedicated to reducing risk and enhancing overall safety in aviation operations.