Abstract:
When we consider regional differences in air safety, a call for regional solutions is
needed. This research probes the current situation in Taiwan and part of Asia from a
regional perspective, aiming to better understand safety management in this region. Data
was drawn from an extensive survey involving both airline pilots and aviation authority
officers. The research investigated respondents' perceptions in airline safety
management, and examined at their opinions about the role of aviation regulatory
authorities and language disadvantages when exchanging safety information.
The results demonstrated that there were key differences between the Captains and the
First Officers surveyed in many aspects of airline safety management. The First Officers
were more eager to have a blame-free and information-shared culture in current
bureaucratic systems than were the Captains. Most pilots expected airline top
management and aviation regulatory authorities to take more information responsibility
for circulating safety related messages and information.
It is believed that a confidential incident reporting system is one of the most appropriate
tools for improving safety. It would be sensitive enough to provide early identification
and warning for rooting out underlying causal factors, and allow constant tracking of
hazards and evaluation of risks they involve. Hence, the second part of the thesis
discusses the feasibility of establishing a national-level confidential incident reporting
system in Taiwan from the viewpoints of the airline pilots and the air traffic controllers.
The survey showed that there was great expectation for the introduction of a national-
level confidential reporting system. However, there was need to undertake a high profile
promotional period within the aviation community, followed by a two-year trial period.
This would help to motivate potential reporters, eliminate their fear of punitive action,
and enable consensus and support to be sought from the airlines. Initially, it is advised to
begin with the participant of flight crew and air traffic controllers only. At the end of the
trial period, an evaluation of the system achievements was recommended. After two
years of successful operation the system might be extended to include maintenance
personnel, cabin crews and other relevant parties.
