An FDM is a structured, systematic program that analyses flight data from all available sources to objectively identify and correct unsafe deviations from company standard operating procedures, to improve the safety of flight operations. FDM is also referred to as FOQA (Flight Operations Quality Assurance) or FDAP (Flight Data Analysis Program).

As per ICAO Annex 6 part 1, FDM is recommended as a part of an operator’s SMS for operators operating aircraft with a certified takeoff mass between 20,000 kgs and 27,000 kgs; however, FDM is required as a part of an operator’s SMS for operators operating aircraft with a certified takeoff mass in excess of 27,000 kgs.

Under FAA regulations, FDM is recommended but not mandatory; however, for Part 121 operations, aircraft are required to be fitted with flight data recording equipment under FAR Part § 121.343 and § 121.344.

The FDM dataset can include anything from a simple smartphone-generated flight track to a complete avionics record that provides everything from engine parameters to control surface deflections [1]. FDM is a Safety Assurance tool and is generally part of an operator’s SMS for organizational risk management.

The FDM data set provides a lot of information and data to an operator, and so it must be protected. As per ICAO Annex 6, part 1, FDM programs are required to be non-punitive and must have adequate safeguards in place to protect the data source(s). Additionally, the recordings or transcripts are required to be used only for the investigation of an accident or an incident as per Annex 13, except where the recordings or transcripts are:

• Related to a safety-related event identified in the context of a safety management system; are restricted to the relevant portions of a de-identified transcript of the recording; and are subject to the protections accorded by Annex 19;
• Sought for use in criminal proceedings not related to an event involving an accident or incident investigation, and are subject to the protections accorded by Annex 19; or
• Used for inspections of flight recorder systems.

Overall, having an FDM program aids the operator to proactively manage risk by identifying operational risks in the form of deviations from SOPs or aircraft deficiencies and mitigating them before they cause an accident. It strengthens the operator’s hazard identification program, helps identify inadequacies in operating procedures, reduces fuel costs, and can also reduce maintenance costs by reducing the need for unscheduled maintenance.

[1] FAA Safety Briefing – The General Aviation Joint Steering Committee – Flight Data Monitoring – January 2014

Safety Round Table

Having General Aviation Aircraft with lightweight flight recording systems is becoming increasingly standard. With the upcoming SMS Mandate for Part 135 operators, should the implementation of an FDM program also be a part of the SMS implementation plan?