IATA’s World Safety and Ops Conference Focuses on Aviation Safety

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is up to the inaugural World Safety and Operations Conference (WSOC) in Hanoi, Vietnam, with Vietnam Airlines as the host. Themed “Leadership in Action: Driving Safer and More Efficient Operations,” the WSOC, scheduled for September 19-21, will convene global aviation safety experts for discussions across four session tracks: Safety, Cabin Operations, Flight Operations, and Emergency Response Planning and Aircraft Recovery.

Aviation Safety

Safety remains the most critical concern for aviation. In 2022, there were five fatal accidents involving onboard casualties out of 32 million flights. Recognizing that each fatality is a tragedy, the collective aim is ensuring every flight’s safe takeoff and landing. While aviation stands as the safest mode of long-distance travel, the industry’s commitment to safety constantly pushes for further enhancement until this vision is fully realized.

Global standards play an important role in this journey, spotlighted by the performance of airlines on the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) registry. The IOSA registry stands as the unofficial worldwide benchmark for operational audits. In 2022, IOSA-registered airlines exhibited an all-accident rate four times better to non-IOSA airlines.

Safety Leadership

Another focus at WSOC is the role of safety leadership. It is important for aviation executives to not only manifest safety leadership but also uphold a strong commitment to fostering a positive safety culture across the organization.

In line with this, IATA has collaboratively developed a Safety Leadership Charter with its members and the broader aviation community. The charter aims to empower executives in nurturing a safety-oriented culture that elevates safety performance and operational resilience. 

Cabin Operations

Additionally, the Operations track will unravel discussions on topics ranging from seamlessly integrating new procedures to the possibilities and constraints of AI. Cabin Operations will address issues such as disruptive passengers, lithium battery risks, cabin crew mental health, wellbeing, and injury reduction. Furthermore, the Emergency Response Planning and Aircraft Recovery track will explore subjects like aircraft recovery, effective communication, family assistance, and risk management.

An equally pivotal theme in the conference is the role of state accident investigation reports in enhancing safety. Notably, only 96 out of 214 accident investigations between 2018 and 2022 aligned with the requirements of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (the Chicago Convention).

Safety is a collaborative endeavor, and knowledge sharing is primordial. The WSOC exemplifies this spirit of unity and cooperation, offering an insightful platform to shape the future of aviation safety.