Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Safety Barometer®?
The Safety Barometer® is a quickly-implemented web-based program that can be used by flight organizations of any size for immediate feedback on the organization's safety trends and environment.

Don Baldwin explains, "We see the Safety Barometer® as an easy way for any flight organization to see how it anonymously compares to its peers. We also give any company using our tool full support in making adjustments and improvements to its safety management system."

The Safety Barometer® analyzes numerous data including:

E-Surveys (5 different categories -- Peer; Self; Management Conformity; etc.)
E-Safety forms (6 online forms -- Waiver; Risk Assessments; Operator Risk Profile; etc.)
On-site assessments / reviews / audits (independent auditor)

2. What's the difference between SMS and a Safety Management Program?
SMS is a necessary and key component of a larger, more comprehensive overarching safety program. A full safety program includes specific standards, policies, procedures and expectations for the flight organization as well as a means to monitor and measure flight organization performance and safety trends. SMS alone does not address all of these critical elements. The Baldwin program encompasses all of these components under one umbrella into one complete, technologically advanced system.

A high-quality safety management program is time-consuming and expensive to develop, implement and maintain in-house. Baldwin clients benefit from the time, expense and effort that was expended in developing Baldwin’s software and safety program. For those organizations that already have some of the components of a complete Safety Management Program, but are lacking the additional tools that close the loop by monitoring and tracking safety related information, our SMSplus™ program can be up and running in less than a week. Baldwin's comprehensive SMS program can be implemented in less than 30 days and, if you so choose, a full Safety Management IS-BAO certifiable program can be implemented in 4-5 months. Instead of reinventing the wheel for each flight organization, we simply tweak our program to meet the specific needs of our clients. Makes a lot of sense, doesn’t it?

3. What are aviation insurance companies looking for?
In June, 2006 Baldwin's safety programs were reviewed and are supported by three of the largest aviation insurance providers in the world. Insurance companies look favorably on flight organizations that maintain a robust safety program. Baldwin clients have reported experiencing "significant" savings in their insurance renewals. An effective safety program includes:

A Safety Management Program, including SMS, that is accepted and operated by highly qualified and motivated personnel. Elements of such a program include:

a. Ongoing safety surveys
b. Safety meetings
c. Methods for detecting hazards
d. Use of best practices
e. On-site reviews and/or audits
f. Process of monitoring safety BEFORE an incident/accident occurs.

An Operations Manual and Emergency Response Plan - complete, current, and approved by the company's executive management - establishing standards and parameters that meet or exceed FAA air carrier or industry criteria (the higher the standards, the safer the operation is assumed to be);

A training program that's continuous, organized and documented to attain and maintain optimum pilot and maintenance proficiency; and

An effective maintenance program that will ensure a safe, airworthy and problem-free aircraft for company use.

Insurers advise owners and operators to “look harder” to reduce rates. Insurance rate spikes in 2001 struck fear in the hearts of flight departments everywhere. Although the rates seem to have stabilized, insurers continue to advise aircraft owners and operators to look harder to reduce insurance costs. “These may include maintenance of higher safety standards, including annual independent safety audits and a higher level of aircrew training. And while such steps might not qualify an applicant for a lower premium, they could make the difference in whether an insurer is even willing to quote a rate. In a hard market, insurers will be less likely even to offer a quote, or even to renew a policy, for insurance applicants who do not meet higher standards of safety and training, or who are deemed high risk.”

- Aviation International News, November 2001

4. What is unique about Baldwin's Operations Manual & Emergency Response Plan?
For the first time, flight organizations have all-inclusive, Web-based and customized manuals that utilize proprietary aviation compliance software, enabling them to readily access continually updated and compliant documents. You can be assured that your manuals will always be current, and you will be notified of any changes.

Our Emergency Response Plan was developed by hands-on experience in emergency events and input from experts, including the National Transportation Safety Board and the insurance industry.

We have a unique, more cost-effective approach to delivering operating manuals. Our proprietary software helps reduce the expense, time, and effort required to develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive, tailored documentation on best practices and industry standards.

5. Does Baldwin's Safety & Compliance Program meet Canadian POC requirements?
Yes. As of March 1, 2007 Baldwin's Safety & Compliance Program was the first and only safety program of its kind to earn IS-BAO registration. IS-BAO (International Standards Business Aviation Organization) is a CBAA recognized code of best practices and complies with Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs). As of July 1, 2009, ALL Canadian operators will be required to have an SMS program in place.

6. Is our company ready to support a flight department?
CEOs, often overwhelmed by regulations and operations standards, may defer or cancel plans to buy or lease aircraft. Don’t let the red tape stifle your growth! As lifelong aviation executives, pilots and managers, we know the joy of aircraft ownership and travel, and the unlimited possibilities and conveniences it provides. That's why we're here.

A company that has just purchased or leased an aircraft and is starting from scratch can spend almost a year making their new flight department fully operational. Baldwin can get you there, typically in 3-4 months. Putting our century of combined aviation experience to use, Baldwin will support and mentor your flight department - and create a program that clearly maps out every step in buying an aircraft and establishing a safe and efficient flight department. Our SafetyGauge™ program helps establish new flight departments by focusing on a solid safety foundation.

7. What is Baldwin's JetDesk®?
Baldwin Aviation created a 24/7 Help Desk for our clients called JetDesk®. This service offers clients a one-phone call (designated Toll Free#) or e-mail resource for any operational or business questions. Baldwin's experienced team coupled with our support services and resources provide timely, factual answers.

8. Do you have an SMS program designed for helicopters?
In April, 2008 the United States Forest Service reviewed and accepted our safety program as one of a select number of recommended SMS providers to their list of recommended resources for their helicopter service providers. “It is apparent that your company provides the level of safety that we would like for our service providers to implement. With that in mind…our operators will be encouraged to contact you directly for further information,” wrote R.G. “Ron” Hanks, Chief of the US Forest Service’s Aviation Risk Management and Training Systems in a letter acknowledging his review of the Baldwin SMS program.

The Forest Service has implemented an SMS approach to accident prevention and currently requires each contractor to develop and implement a safety system program. Our RotorSMS™ program incorporates tools similar to those we use in our basic program, tailored to rotary wing operators. Subscribers to RotorSMS™ enjoy the benefits of saving time and money, including favorable consideration for insurance premium reductions and resource discounts…and you’re able to meet contractor requirements like those of the US Forest Service.

The RotorSMS™ program is a comprehensive, cutting-edge safety program with online delivery that includes a tailored Emergency Response Plan (ERP) and Operations Manual, forms and reports, safety tracking system, and e-Surveys. It provides timely delivery of Operational Messages, automatic notification of changes and updates to Operations Manual and the ERP, and advanced notice of regulatory changes. It also simplifies compliance to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and IS-BAO regulations, standards, and practices.

For those flight organizations that already have key components of a complete Safety Management Program, Baldwin's SMSplus™ perfectly dovetails with these types of organizations and can be up and running in less than a week.

9. Is my flight organization required to implement a Safety Management System?
Not yet. But it's coming. The FAA released AC 120-92 and AC 120-92a notifying operators of pending legislation that will make SMS mandatory. Today, Canada, Australia, Europe, and New Zealand already mandate or are in the process of mandating SMS. All Canadian operators will now be required to have an SMS in place by July 1, 2009. More recently, the new ICAO Annex 6 Part II requirements will require business operators flying internationally to meet the standard by November 18, 2010.

Internally developing a comprehensive safety management program can be costly, time-consuming and overwhelming for flight organizations. Our programs were specifically designed with budget constraints in mind and ease of implementation. We've done the work. You save time and money.

10. How are the Safety Gauge™ and safetysherpa® programs different?
Baldwin offers a turnkey flight organization start-up program based on the Baldwin safety programs. By establishing a sound safety foundation, our Safety Gauge™ program focuses on getting safe and staying safe in a new flight department.

Our extended mentoring program, safetysherpa®, is designed for new or changing flight departments - going beyond the basics of a "start-up" program. By serving as mentors, we use our extensive aviation experience to help you start out safe and - just as important - stay that way. Working with flight organization managers and existing personnel, our objective is to teach them to fish rather than providing a "single fish dinner".

Key areas that are included in these programs are:

* Company Management and the Flight Organization
* Aviation Personnel / Staff
* Aircraft Acquisition / Fleet Planning
* Safety Management Program (SMS)
* Aviation Security Program
* Flight Operations
* Regulatory / Government / Airport Authority
* Aircraft Maintenance
* Training Programs
* Airports, Facilities and Office
* Administration / Fiscal (Budgets, Processes etc.)
* Tax Issues
* Aviation Insurance
* Supplemental Lift
* Contract / Temporary Employees
* Subscriptions & Memberships
* Baldwin Program Implementation
* Establish Support Resources (temp crew, charter backup, trip support services)
* Additional Services as Requested by Client (additional rates may apply)

11. What is Baldwin Aviation's Safety Management Program?
Baldwin Aviation's comprehensive Safety Management Program consists of the following: Operations Manuals (SMS; Standards; etc.); Emergency Response Plan; Safety Barometer®; E-Surveys; Safety related e-forms (flight risk assessment, maintenance risk, operator profile, waiver, etc.); Support Services Program; JetDesk®; and web-site resources. If you wish to use YOUR operations manuals, we are able to upload them as part of the all-inclusive Baldwin Aviation Safety Management Program.

The only company of its kind to have earned IS-BAO registration for its Safety Management and Compliance Program, Baldwin helps you adopt IS-BAO best practices and then, if you so choose, earn IS-BAO certification under the Baldwin umbrella within just 4 to 5 months. Our clients enjoy the benefits and security of a tailored, high-quality safety management program without breaking the bank.

Aviation International News Operational Alert on October 12, 2006 stated the following:

"Having made the recommendation that all types of aircraft operators adopt a safety management system, the FAA is now considering a rule mandating SMS. James Ballough, FAA director of Flight Standards Service, revealed at the Bombardier Safety Standdown in Wichita, Kans., last week that the agency would like to make SMS mandatory but offered no details on the timing of a potential rulemaking. To get an idea of what may be required if SMS becomes law, see SMS advisory circular, AC 120-92."

12. What are Baldwin Aviation Safety E-Forms?
Clients have the convenience and ease of use of our critical safety E-forms online. These forms include flight risk assessment, maintenance risk assessment, policy waivers, safety reporting and operator safety risk profiles. These forms may be accessed anywhere/anytime via the internet and may be modified according to our clients needs and location.

Data collected from these forms is part of the input to our cutting-edge Safety Barometer that monitors safety trends in flight organizations. This new, cutting-edge tool has been recognized by the insurance industry as a vital component of the Baldwin Aviation Safety Management Program.

13. What forms of payment do you accept?
Services may be invoiced on a quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis via American Express, Visa, M/C or direct billing.

14. What is IS-BAO and why do I need it?
The business aviation industry, auditors, insurance companies, and many international regulators recognize IS-BAO (International Standards for Business Aviation Operations) to be the minimum standard for a flight organization. It is recognized worldwide by ICAO and many other state aviation authorities.

According to a recent study (NBAA - National Business Aviation Association), 35 to 55 percent of 297 business jet and turboprop accidents that occurred between 1998 and 2003 might have been prevented if IS-BAO standards had been adopted and in practice.

Baldwin can help your flight department gain IS-BAO registration in just 4-5 months, versus the typical 18-24 months, and at a fraction of the cost. We are the first company of its kind to receive IS-BAO registration for our safety program, which took more than two years to develop.

15. What questions should you be asking of your flight organization?
1. What are the qualifications and experience of the Chief Pilot / Aviation Director?
2. Does the Chief Pilot have management and leadership experience?
3. What are the qualifications and experience of the Maintenance Manager?
4. Does the flight organization have a current and recently revised operations manual?
5. Does the flight organization have a current and recently revised emergency response plan?
6. Does the flight organization have a complete Safety Management Program (SMS)?
7. What training program is in place for ALL aviation personnel?
8. Is the personnel turnover rate stable?
9. Does the flight organization have all the necessary resources to be efficient and safe?

16. Which FARs do Baldwin Safety programs support?
Baldwin's safety programs conform to the globally accepted IS-BAO and HAI Platinum (helicopters) programs and support operators under Parts 91, 125, 133 , 135 and 137.

17. What are the origins of FDA / FDM / FOQA?
Flight Data Analysis (FDA) / Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) / (FOQA) Flight Operation Quality Assurance programs began in the 1960s with two European airlines – British Airways and TAP Air Portugal. During the late 1990s, formal FDA programs became commonplace at major airlines.

18. What is FDM / FDA / FOQA?
FDM (Flight Data Monitoring), FDA (Flight Data Analysis) and FOQA (Flight Operations Quality Assurance) are one and the same. FDM and FOQA are generic terms commonly used in the United States. FDA, however, is the generic international term.

* FDA is the collection, processing and analysis of objective flight data to gather valuable safety information, identify threats and reduce or eliminate safety risk.
* As an integral part of an operator’s Safety Management System, FDM/FDA will allow an operator to provide continuous feedback to improve maintenance, operations, safety and training.

19. What are people saying about the Baldwin programs?
"..... It is the finest program and materials that I have seen anywhere, bar none. He is doing a world class job, which of course makes my task very pleasurable. I know when I arrive at a Baldwin client that they will be prepared, be believers in SMS, and will be regularly reducing risk in their operations....." IS-BAO Auditor

"There is no way we could ever have imagined getting the IS-BAO and ARG/US Platinum certifications without the tools, guidance and support from Baldwin Aviation." Director of Operations, Part 135 Operator, Houston, TX

"You have truly put together an impressive aircraft management department. What was especially impressive was your web based risk management and training systems. Neither the underwriter nor I have seen a better system to date. It will prove helpful when we negotiate the renewal of your insurance program later this year." [excerpt from an email to one of Baldwin's clients from their Aviation Insurance Company]

"We are a small 91 operation and are lucky to have a very understanding principal and at the onset of our department established ground rules which included a 135 duty day.
One thing we have done subsequent to our inception was establishing an SMS. We use Baldwin Aviation's program and a very useful tool is their online based risk assessment tool which is completed prior to every flight. This tool measures every aspect of the flight from pilot quals to weather to the type of airport to duty day to number of legs, etc. The program rates the risk in a numerical form at the end. There have been times when the crew was well within their duty day and the assessment showed it was a very high risk due to other factors. We follow this religiously and the one thing this program affords us is consistency and unbiased decisions especially on those marginal days." [As quoted from NBAA Av Manager] Aviation Director - Mid-West

"The content of Baldwin's system - I looked at others - Baldwin was the most 'turnkey' and updates are easy. My crews can go directly INTO the software, this is important - they can look up the data they need at home or on the road, if necessary." Aviation Department Manager, West Coast

"Right from the inquiry stage they have been responsive, they are right there. We hold THEM back sometimes! Baldwin makes it easy." Chief Pilot - West Coast

"Baldwin [was] extremely flexible to our situation and needs and have helped us reach our goal of becoming a 'world class' small flight department. And, their influence and involvement continues. Now, in our day-to-day activities, we are acutely aware of how we assess risks and respond to them. This process has helped us refine and enhance our operations. We couldn't have done this without Baldwin." West Coast Aviation Director

20. Does Baldwin Aviation provide training?
Yes. SMS training is included as part of the Baldwin programs for all clients. Training is generally conducted through live webinar based presentations or, as an option, on-site classroom-style training. SMS training is also available via online CBT courses.

Through an agreement with www.TrainingPort.net, Baldwin clients enjoy a 10-15% discount on recurrent training courses. TrainingPort® is the single source for customized recurrent safety training. For example, the Basic Package costs $675 per person/per year and includes the following required courses:
Dangerous Goods Awareness for Pilots
Emergency Procedures
Emergency Procedures Practical Checklist
Airborne Icing
A/C Surface Contamination
High Altitude Training
Hazardous Materials / Goods
Ops Manual, Regulations and Standards Review
Runway Awareness
RVSM / DRVSM
Safety Management Systems for Business Aviation Pilots and Managers
MNPS

Additional courses are available. Please contact Baldwin Aviation for information on course availability and details.

Toll-Free 888.222.2112

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about Baldwin's Operations Manual & Emergency Response Plan?