What is the purpose of a Safety Management System (SMS) in aviation?

The purpose of a Safety Management System (SMS) in aviation is fundamentally to enhance safety through the implementation of risk management practices and proactive safety measures. An SMS is designed to provide a systematic approach to managing safety, which includes identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls to mitigate those risks. By focusing on proactive safety measures, an SMS allows organizations to anticipate and prevent accidents before they occur, rather than merely responding to incidents after the fact. This comprehensive approach helps to create a safety culture within the organization, ensuring that safety remains a priority in all aspects of aviation operations.

The significance of this purpose is that it shifts the focus from reactive practices—where responses are only made after incidents or issues arise—to preventive and systematic processes that prioritize overall safety throughout the operation.