Assessment of Safety Management System (SMS) Effectiveness in Small Commercial Airlines in the Philippines

• Author(s): Barrameda, Rodolfo Johans M. ; Florencondia, Noel T. ; Villar, Michael John M.
• Paper ID: 1709772
• Page: 1054-1057
• Published Date: 25-07-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 1 July-2025

Abstract

The aviation industry places paramount importance on safety, and the implementation of a robust Safety Management System (SMS) is a critical component in achieving this objective. In compliance with ICAO Annex 19, all aviation service providers, including small commercial airlines, are required to establish and maintain an effective SMS. However, in the Philippines, many small commercial airlines face persistent challenges in fully implementing and sustaining these systems due to limitations in resources, workforce capacity, infrastructure, and organizational safety culture. This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of SMS in small Philippine carriers, with particular attention to three critical dimensions: hazard reporting practices, risk management procedures, and safety culture maturity. To achieve this, a mixed-methods approach was employed. Quantitative data were gathered through structured surveys aligned with ICAO’s safety performance indicators, while qualitative data were obtained via semi-structured interviews and document reviews. Respondents included safety managers, line safety officers, flight crew, and ground personnel across multiple operational departments. The study also assessed the alignment of each organization’s SMS documentation—including manuals, hazard logs, and audit reports—with ICAO standards and local regulatory requirements under PCAR Part 9. The results revealed that while most airlines have an SMS framework in place, its application is often inconsistent and superficial. Only 58% of personnel reported engaging in regular hazard reporting, with many citing fear of punitive action, lack of feedback, and insufficient leadership support as primary barriers. Risk management activities were generally reactive, conducted only after incidents, rather than proactively as part of day-to-day operations. Furthermore, the safety culture across these organizations was found to be in the early stages of maturity, with limited evidence of just culture, peer accountability, or ongoing safety promotion. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, including safety leadership development, consistent training, digital hazard reporting tools, and the reinforcement of non-punitive reporting environments. The study concludes by proposing strategic recommendations to enhance SMS effectiveness, including localized manual revisions, structured audit follow-up systems, and increased integration of safety officers in operational functions. By addressing both systemic and cultural issues, small airlines in the Philippines can improve their compliance with ICAO standards and, more importantly, establish a proactive and sustainable safety culture.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Barrameda, Rodolfo Johans M. , Florencondia, Noel T. , Villar, Michael John M. "Assessment of Safety Management System (SMS) Effectiveness in Small Commercial Airlines in the Philippines" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 1 2025 Page 1054-1057

IEEE:
Barrameda, Rodolfo Johans M. , Florencondia, Noel T. , Villar, Michael John M. "Assessment of Safety Management System (SMS) Effectiveness in Small Commercial Airlines in the Philippines" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(1)