ABSTRACT
A safety management system (SMS) can be considered to be a systematic approach to managing safety, including the necessary organizational structures, accountabilities, policies and procedures. This chapter provides an overview of the framework of aviation safety regulation and the obligations and responsibilities that this system imposes on the regulator, the manufacturer and the operator. It considers the obligations imposed upon states by the Chicago Convention 1944 with respect to aircraft accidents and serious incidents. The early safety process by airlines, accident investigation authorities and regulators focused on the need to prevent frequent accidents. The chapter aims to reduce the level of risk deriving from aviation activities and promoting and enhancing the safety of air navigation. It explains the fundamental importance of safety with respect to all aviation activities. The chapter looks at the legislative basis of safety-related standards and requirements, both those deriving from a state's obligations under the Chicago Convention and also domestic statutory requirements.
