Reaching the Next Plateau of Naval Aviation Safety

Abstract

The mission readiness of Naval Aviation is directly linked to operational efficiency, which includes minimizing operating costs and maximizing the effectiveness of personnel training. Mishap reduction, to preserve life and the weapons systems employed, is also essential for Naval Aviation to maintain the resources required to successfully fulfill its role in support of national security. Significant reductions in the aircraft mishap rate have been made with various technical and programmatic improvements since Naval Aviation’s first fatality in 1913. However, the Naval Aviation mishap rate has remained at a relative plateau for more than two decades. Commander, Naval Air Forces (CNAF), Force Safety is aggressively pursuing programs to break below this plateau. Two promising initiatives being implemented and matured by CNAF Force Safety are Military Flight Operations Quality Assurance (MFOQA) and the Aviation Safety Awareness Program (ASAP). MFOQA is an information management process in which flight data are analyzed and visualized to provide users with objective and actionable information that can be used to reduce risks and improve operational readiness. ASAP provides a mechanism for aircrew and maintenance personnel to anonymously report information, both good and bad, regarding aircraft operations and maintenance, command safety climate, and other safety related factors. Objectives for both programs include the identification of mishap precursors, or leading indicators, on which corrective intervention can be based to mitigate risks prior to a mishap occurring. This paper summarizes some of the significant safety initiatives during Naval Aviation’s history. The evolution of MFOQA and ASAP, examples of benefits from each, and evolving aggregate risk analysis and presentation techniques are presented. CNAF Force Safety’s vision as to how advanced analytical capabilities can help break below the Naval Aviation mishap rate plateau by mitigating risks and fostering a culture of operational excellence is also discussed.