Textron Aviation received FAA approval for its safety management system (SMS) implementation plan covering the design and manufacturing of Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. Approval of the implementation plan will build on its SMS program, which has already been accepted for maintenance and support of Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. This FAA nod comes in advance of deadlines established under new regulations that require SMS for manufacturers, which have until November 28 to submit their SMS plan and until May 2027 to implement it.
Textron Aviation’s program includes a voluntary reporting tool for employees, customers, or suppliers to anonymously report quality risks or hazards to the company’s SMS Committee. The committee will evaluate the risk, investigate the cause, and plan a response, the Wichita airframer noted, adding that this ensures continuous improvements in safety and quality standards.
“By integrating the insights and expertise of our employees, customers, and suppliers into our SMS, we not only enhance our ability to identify and mitigate risks but also strengthen the collaborative continuous improvement of our products and services,” said Chris Hearne, senior v-p of engineering. “This collaborative approach is in line with our mission to empower our collective talent to design and deliver the best aviation experience for customers.”
The company underscored the importance of leveraging the diverse perspectives of its employees and stakeholders to foster a culture of open communication and teamwork.
“With a longstanding commitment to safety and quality in manufacturing, Textron Aviation has been designing and manufacturing industry-leading Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft for more than 95 years,” said Todd McKee, senior v-p of integrated supply chain. “This FAA approval is a testament to our commitment to product safety at every level of operation.”