A positive safety culture remains the foundation of an effective SMS. The aviation industry has maintained efforts to develop and mature safety culture through its SMS program. However, the missing pillar, particularly in the African Region, is the State Safety Programme (SSP) component. Out of the 48 States in AFI, only two had full SSP maturity as of December 2024. This is, therefore, an area that needs constant encouragement, support, and leadership at every level.
One of the highlights of the Leadership/Safety Culture session at SIRM33 was the presentation on “Understanding and Managing Cultural Impact on Aviation Safety.” This covered a multifaceted approach looking at how the various spheres influence culture in general and, ultimately, safety culture. While it was highlighted that industry standards and compliance requirements generally shape cultural expectations, it was equally important to be aware of what is responsible for breeding negative organizational culture and safety. Then, the next step would be to identify signs of negative cultural traits so that these can be curbed upstream.
