The NBAA Safety Committee has released the first in a three-part video series aimed at helping small operators implement a safety management system (SMS) in line with FAA Part 5. The rule, finalised in April 2024, expands SMS requirements to Part 135 operators, certain Part 21 certificate holders and §91.147 air tour operators.

The 20-minute video, titled FAA Part 5 SMS for Small Operators: Safety Policy & Safety Promotion, outlines the creation of a practical SMS using one hypothetical operation. It incorporates best practices from operators already complying with the rule.

“We recognised a gap in accessible, relatable and scenario-based guidance that simplifies regulatory compliance and showcases real-world SMS application,” said Amanda Ferraro, CAM and SMS Working Group lead for the NBAA Safety Committee.

Two further videos will follow, covering safety risk management and safety assurance. “Taken together, these videos are designed to bring the SMS framework to life,” Ferraro added.

This video continues NBAA’s 2024 focus on improving safety, with other efforts including a general aviation safety pause, safety-focused webinars, expanded data-sharing advocacy and content in its Business Aviation Insider magazine. More resources are planned for NBAA-BACE 2025 in Las Vegas this October.