What is a Safety Management System (SMS)?
SMS is the formal, top-down, organization-wide approach to managing safety risk and assuring the effectiveness of safety risk controls. It includes systematic procedures, practices, and policies for the management of safety risk. (FAA Order 8000.369)
SMS introduces an evolutionary process in system safety and safety management. SMS is a structured process that obligates organizations to manage safety with the same level of priority that other core business processes are managed. This applies to both internal (FAA) and external aviation industry organizations (Operator & Product Service Provider).
This website will evolve; please continue to visit this site periodically for enhancements, updates and the most current information about SMS, Aviation Safety and the interface with FAA.
SMS Explained
Get quickly up to speed! What is SMS? Where did it come from? How does it work?
SMS International Collaboration
Information about our SMS international collaboration efforts.
Reference Library
Information at your fingertips. Access a wide range of guide books, articles, websites, and training materials for you and your staff.
FAQs
Get the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Specifics by Aviation Industry Type
Information tailored to your specific sector (ex: Air Carriers, Air Taxi, Air Tour, Maintenance under 121, Repair Stations, Non-Certificated Repair Facilities, Flight Schools, Simulator Facilities, Airports, etc.)
Contacts
Contact information for FAA offices working with SMS.
Please send us your feedback! What would you like to see on this website? Please feel free to email your comments to 9-avp-300-sms@faa.gov.
Last updated: Wednesday, March 02, 2022