Textron Aviation, a Textron company, has announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved its new Safety Management System (SMS) implementation plan for the design and manufacturing of Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. This approval extends the company’s existing FAA-approved SMS program, which already supports the maintenance and support of these renowned aircraft, and highlights Textron Aviation’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of product quality throughout its operations.
Todd McKee, Senior Vice President of Integrated Supply Chain, commented, “With a long-standing dedication to safety and quality in manufacturing, Textron Aviation has been at the forefront of designing and producing leading Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft for over 95 years. This FAA approval underscores our commitment to safety at every level of our operations. We are setting new industry standards by prioritizing safety and quality in everything we do.”
The SMS is a systematic framework for managing product safety, incorporating organizational structures, accountabilities, policies, and procedures. Textron Aviation’s new SMS program features a voluntary reporting tool that enables employees, customers, or suppliers to anonymously report aircraft quality risks or hazards directly to the company’s SMS Committee. This committee reviews the information, investigates the issues, and devises solutions. The findings lead to updates in processes and tools, ensuring continuous improvements in safety and quality standards.
Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering, added, “Integrating the insights and expertise of our employees, customers, and suppliers into our SMS not only improves our risk identification and mitigation capabilities but also strengthens our collaborative approach to product and service improvement. This approach aligns with our mission to harness our collective talent to provide the best aviation experience for our customers.”
Textron Aviation values the diverse perspectives and expertise of its employees and stakeholders in addressing potential challenges and enhancing safety and operational performance. By promoting a culture of open communication and teamwork, Textron Aviation encourages active participation in identifying risks and developing innovative solutions.
For more information about Cessna and Beechcraft products, visit txtav.com.
