Back-to-school time typically means getting back to basics. Maybe you’ve let things lapse in the name of sweet summertime, but now bedtimes and screen time are back to regulations. It’s normal for things to wax and wane- from diets to cleaning schedules…but one area where things might be less stringent than they should be that SHOULDN’T backslide is your compliance with Federal Regulations.

We get it- there seems to be an ever-growing and/or ever-changing list of rules that you have to implement and track, but streamlining not only your adherence to but also your continual compliance is crucial to a fine-less and seamless operation. Here are a few tips to help you have an easier time complying and proving said compliance…because it’s the FAA’s world, we’re all just living in it:

• Establish a regulatory compliance department – look this is a big deal and an even bigger challenge. With changing and new rules implemented all the time (and lack of compliance incurring fines and even the worst-case scenario of ceasing operations if things get really off the rails) it’s crucial to have a team behind the scenes whose sole focus is safety standards and compliance efficacy.

• Stay informed and up-to-date – reach out to the FAA. Get on their emailing list. Really desperate to make sure you’re in the loop? They’re on the ‘gram. The point is, in this digital age there are more and more ways to make sure that you stay in the loop in terms of what the good ole FAA is up to.

• Participate in regulatory associations/attend seminars – If you’re really eager why not go one step further and join an organization that would help develop future regulations? Your perspective is important and could be invaluable since your airline is a company actively flying around and knows what it takes to thrive in the aviation industry. You could also shape rules that not only keep people safer but adhere to your interests and procedures. Here’s a list of a few you could join, complete with acronyms since we know how much airline people love them:

  • Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Your Freedom to Fly – AOPA

  • National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) NBAA – National Business Aviation Association

  • National Air Transport Association (NATA) National Air Transportation Association (nata.aero)

  • Regional Airline Association (RAA) This is RAA – Regional Airline Association

  • Aviation Suppliers Association (ASA) ASA Home (aviationsuppliers.org)

• Ensure you’re always ready for inspections – this means that you have the means to make sure your various departments are knowledgeable with applicable regulations as well as make sure you have all documentation/records to prove compliance.

• Invest in software to monitor initiatives and adherence – In the vein of the previous bullet, keeping accurate records of incidents, qualifications, and certifications is key in maintaining a good rapport with the FAA. Digital tracking and storage can be a good way to manage documentation so that’s it’s easily accessible…and it just so happens that we’re a tech company who can build you just that- a safe and secure place to house all your records and certificate till the moment you might need them. For example, our Training App helps crews monitor their status and upcoming expirations, both of which help with ensuring qualifications other documentations are up to date. It also allows the crews to upload their most recent medicals, passports, etc. and will even notify the crewmembers when their documents are expiring, all of which means a more organized workforce that’s ready (and qualified) to go. Check out all ELP Training has to offer here: ELP Training – ELP Aviation, Inc