What is the purpose of an aviation safety audit?

The purpose of an aviation safety audit is to assess an organization's safety and operational practices. This process involves a thorough evaluation of how well an organization adheres to safety standards and regulations, as well as how effectively it manages risk within its operations. Conducting an audit helps identify areas that require improvement, ensures that safety protocols are being followed, and fosters a culture of safety within the organization. The audit encompasses various aspects, including maintenance practices, training of personnel, and adherence to regulatory requirements, which are critical in preventing accidents and ensuring the integrity of aviation operations.

While compliance with environmental regulations, evaluation of passenger feedback, and benchmarking against competitors may all be relevant to an airline's broader operational strategy, they do not directly align with the primary focus of safety audits, which is centered around evaluating and enhancing safety measures.