Who is responsible for compliance with aviation safety regulations at an airline?

The responsibility for compliance with aviation safety regulations primarily lies with the airline operator and its management. This is because airline operators are required to develop and implement safety management systems, operational procedures, and maintenance protocols that adhere to established regulations. This includes ensuring that all personnel are trained adequately and that aircraft are maintained according to regulatory standards.

Management within the airline plays a crucial role in fostering a safety culture, allocating resources for safety initiatives, and responding to safety issues as they arise. They are accountable for operational decisions that affect safety and for ensuring that all aspects of the airline's operations comply with the regulations set forth by aviation authorities.

While the aircraft manufacturer has a responsibility regarding the design and production of safe aircraft, and individual pilots must adhere to regulations during their operations, the overarching compliance responsibility is held by the airline operator and management. This holistic oversight ensures that all facets of aviation safety are addressed within the organization.