Coordination of Emergency Response Planning in Aviation SMS
An emergency response plan (ERP) documents actions to be performed by all responsible personnel during aviation-related emergencies. ERPs are designed to ensure there is an orderly and efficient transition from normal to emergency operations, including assignment of emergency responsibilities and delegation of authority.
ERPs also document authorization for action by key personnel, as well as the means to coordinate efforts necessary to cope with the emergency. ERPs permit the safe continuation of operations and the return to normal operations as soon as possible.
Airlines and airports will:
- Create an emergency response plan (ERP)that reflects the size,
nature and complexity of the operation. The completed ERP defines the procedures, roles, responsibilities and actions
of the various organizations and key personnel;
- Ensure key personnel noted in the ERP have easy access to the ERP
at all times;
- Create a process to distribute the ERP
procedures and to communicate the content to all personnel; and
- Test the ERP for the adequacy of the plan
and review the results to improve its effectiveness
This element is satisfied when the organization has an emergency response plan appropriate to the size and complexity of organization. The emergency response plan must be regularly tested and updated including coordination with other organizations as appropriate.
SMS Pro modules used to support this requirement
Best Practices
- The airline or airport has Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) or agreements with other organizations for mutual aid and the provision of emergency services;
- The operator has implemented Critical Incident Stress Management for their personnel.