How to Be Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 7, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The role of an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) is critical to the safety of air travel. The primary responsibility of this position is to ensure that aircraft operations and maintenance comply with all applicable federal regulations. This is accomplished by performing inspections and investigations, monitoring compliance with operational and maintenance standards, and providing guidance for corrective action when necessary.

The inspector also provides guidance on the development and implementation of procedures that ensure the safety of air travel. By ensuring that the regulations are met, the Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) plays a vital role in preventing accidents and incidents from occurring, thus protecting passengers and crew members alike.

Steps How to Become

Meet the Eligibility Requirements. To become an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations), you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least three years of aviation experience as a pilot, flight engineer, or flight navigator in a commercial, military, or private aviation organization.
Obtain a College Degree. Although not required, it is highly recommended that aspiring Aviation Safety Inspectors obtain a college degree in aviation management, aviation safety, or a related field.
Obtain a Pilot's License. You must have a pilot's license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in order to become an Aviation Safety Inspector.
Complete On-the-Job Training. Once you have been hired as an Aviation Safety Inspector, you will be required to undergo on-the-job training. This training will cover topics such as aircraft maintenance, flight operations, airworthiness standards, and aviation regulations.
Pass an Exam. After completing your on-the-job training, you will be required to pass an FAA written exam in order to become a certified Aviation Safety Inspector.
Complete Continuing Education. As an Aviation Safety Inspector, you will be required to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain your certification.

Being an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) requires a combination of ideal qualities and competencies. Dedication to safety and attention to detail are essential traits in order to effectively monitor and inspect the operations of aircraft. Having a thorough understanding of aviation regulations and procedures is necessary to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft.

In addition, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are key to working effectively with operators, pilots, and other inspectors. Lastly, strong organizational skills, analytical thinking, and problem solving abilities will enable an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) to properly assess potential safety issues and take the necessary corrective actions. With these ideal qualities and competencies, an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) can be successful in ensuring the safety of air travel.

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Job Description

Monitor and evaluate assigned aviation operators safety performance to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and standards.
Inspect aircraft, flight operations, and records to ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs).
Investigate aircraft accidents and incidents to determine cause and recommend corrective action.
Ensure compliance with air traffic control regulations, navigation aids, and other aviation services.
Provide technical advice and guidance on safe operating practices to aviation operators.
Monitor and investigate pilot qualifications, medical certification, and other areas of operations personnel performance.
Conduct flight tests to evaluate aircraft performance and operational procedures.
Review flight crews performance and training records to ensure compliance with regulations.
Monitor and evaluate safety management systems (SMS) of assigned aviation operators to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
Develop and implement safety programs for assigned aviation operators.
Coordinate with other government agencies to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Develop and conduct safety seminars for assigned aviation operators.
Participate in accident investigations by collecting evidence, conducting interviews, and writing reports.
Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations, laws, policies, and procedures.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aviation regulations and compliance requirements
Ability to effectively communicate with other aviation personnel
In-depth knowledge of aircraft systems, components, and operations
Ability to interpret and apply safety standards and procedures
Ability to assess operational risk and develop corrective action plans
Ability to troubleshoot aircraft issues and recommend solutions
Knowledge of aviation safety management systems and processes
Comprehensive knowledge of flight operations
Ability to develop and implement safety policies and procedures
Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
Ability to conduct inspections and investigations
Strong organizational and time management skills
Proficiency in the use of computer applications related to aviation safety

Aviation Safety Inspectors (Flight Operations) are responsible for ensuring the safety of air transportation by conducting inspections and audits of air carriers. To effectively fulfill this role, an Aviation Safety Inspector must possess a wide range of skills, such as strong communication and interpersonal skills, analytical and problem-solving skills, the ability to effectively manage and prioritize tasks, and the ability to interpret and apply Federal Aviation Regulations. The most important skill for an Aviation Safety Inspector is their knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs).

This includes their ability to interpret and apply the regulations to ensure compliance with applicable standards and policies. Having a thorough understanding of the FARs also allows Aviation Safety Inspectors to quickly identify any potential safety issues, investigate them thoroughly, and take corrective action. Having an in-depth knowledge of the FARs is essential to ensure that air carriers are operating safely and in accordance with the regulations.

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Frequent Interview Questions

Describe your experience in aviation safety management systems.
What safety regulations do you believe to be most important for flight operations?
How would you go about conducting an investigation into an incident or accident?
What techniques do you use to ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations?
Describe a situation where you had to take corrective action to address an aviation safety concern.
What experience do you have in assessing risk and preventing hazards in aircraft operations?
How would you handle a situation where a customer is not complying with flight safety regulations?
What have you done to ensure the accuracy and reliability of aviation safety reports?
How would you manage a team of flight safety inspectors?
How do you stay up to date with changes in aviation safety regulations?

Common Tools in Industry

Flight Recordings. Tool used to review flight recordings in order to identify any errors or discrepancies that could affect safety. (e. g. cockpit voice recorders, flight data recorders)
Safety Management System (SMS). System used to identify safety risks, document safety standards and procedures, and track safety records. (e. g. hazard reporting, safety assessment, risk management)
Pre-flight Checklist. Used to ensure that aircraft is airworthy and fit for flight. (e. g. weight and balance, fuel levels, navigation equipment)
Flight Simulator. Virtual environment used to practice and review aircraft procedures and maneuvers without risk of actual flight. (e. g. engine failures, emergency situations)
Aviation Regulations. Rules and regulations governing the operation of aircraft. (e. g. Federal Aviation Administration, International Civil Aviation Organization)
Maintenance Logs. Logs used to review aircraft maintenance records to ensure planes are properly serviced and safe for flight. (e. g. airframe maintenance, engine maintenance)
Safety Audits. Systematic reviews of aircraft operation to identify potential safety hazards and ensure compliance with safety standards. (e. g. ground operations, pilot performance)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
Regional Airline Association (RAA)
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
Federation Aviation Administration (FAA)
National Aeronautic Association (NAA)
Flight Safety Foundation (FSF)

We also have Flight Control Engineer, Flight Attendant, and Flight Director jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Pilot in Command (PIC). The pilot in command is the captain or first officer of an aircraft who has responsibility for the operation and safety of the flight.
Flight Dispatch. Flight dispatchers are responsible for the preparation and coordination of flight plans, ensuring aircraft are loaded and ready for takeoff, and that all necessary information is communicated to all personnel involved with the flight.
Air Traffic Control (ATC). Air traffic controllers are responsible for the safe and efficient flow of air traffic in the airspace they control.
Aircraft Maintenance. Aircraft maintenance personnel are responsible for ensuring aircraft are in a condition capable of safe operation and meeting all airworthiness requirements.
Flight Attendant. Flight attendants are responsible for providing a safe, comfortable and secure flight experience for passengers.
Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). FARs are the rules governing the operation of aircraft in the United States.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The NTSB is a federal agency responsible for investigating aviation accidents and incidents in the United States.
Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP). ASAP is a voluntary program that encourages aviation safety through the reporting and analysis of safety deficiencies in aviation operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main duty of an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations)?

The main duty of an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) is to ensure air carriers and commercial operators comply with FAA regulations and standards related to flight operations.

What qualifications are required to become an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations)?

To become an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations), applicants must have a bachelor's degree in aviation, aeronautical engineering, or a related field and at least 1,000 hours of pilot-in-command time in a multi-engine aircraft.

How many Aviation Safety Inspectors (Flight Operations) are employed by the FAA?

The FAA currently employs approximately 2,000 Aviation Safety Inspectors (Flight Operations).

What is the salary range for an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations)?

The salary range for an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) is $95,026 to $128,795 per year.

What is the job outlook for an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations)?

The job outlook for an Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Operations) is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.