Tradewind Aviation, a leading operator in regional air mobility, has proudly announced the recent approval of its Safety Management System (SMS) by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
This achievement places Tradewind among the top 2% of Part 135 Operators that have completed the FAA’s SMS voluntary program process.
Advancing Aviation Safety
The SMS represents a comprehensive and proactive approach to identifying potential hazards, assessing and mitigating risks, and fortifying safety measures.
This robust system empowers Tradewind to make well-informed decisions that prioritize passenger security and operational efficiency.
Tradewind’s induction into the FAA’s Voluntary Safety Management (SMSVP) program signifies more than mere compliance; it also represents a standard of excellence.
The airline joins an exclusive league of Part 135 Operators, both on-demand and scheduled, that have not only completed the rigorous SMS voluntary program but have also gained the coveted ‘active conformance’ status.
This distinction firmly places Tradewind in the top 2% of operators in the United States, which perhaps underscores the company’s statement of their commitment to aviation safety.
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Behind the Scenes: The Effort and Dedication
The development and finalization of Tradewind’s SMS were no small feats. Spearheading this multiyear endeavor was Director of Safety, Sarah Zimmerman.
Her leadership and expertise guided the airline through the intricate process, ensuring that every aspect of the SMS aligned with the FAA’s stringent standards.
With the FAA’s seal of approval, Tradewind has transitioned from an “active applicant” to an “active conformant,” solidifying its reputation as an aviation safety trailblazer.
A Global Standard
Tradewind’s SMS not only adheres to the FAA’s exacting requirements but also meets the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) standards.
This international recognition underscores Tradewind’s unwavering commitment to safety on a global scale. The alignment with ICAO standards further bolsters the airline’s credibility, positioning it as a benchmark for safety within the industry.
Unveiling the Benefits
The benefits stemming from the FAA’s approval of Tradewind’s SMS are multi-faceted and far-reaching. First and foremost, it significantly enhances passenger safety by fostering a culture of proactive risk management.
In addition, this achievement translates into substantial cost savings as potential risks are identified and mitigated before they escalate. This level of operational efficiency not only bolsters the airline’s bottom line but also reinforces its commitment to responsible business practices.
Confidence and Credibility
Tradewind’s commitment to safety is now more apparent than ever, instilling confidence in clients, aviation professionals, and industry stakeholders.
By adopting a safety-first approach, the airline enhances its decision-making process, ensuring the optimal allocation of resources. The SMS also serves as a conduit for clear and effective communication regarding safety practices—a language universally understood within the aviation sector.
About Tradewind Aviation
The FAA’s endorsement of Tradewind’s SMS underscores the airline’s leadership role in business aviation. Eric Zipkin, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tradewind Aviation, encapsulates this sentiment:
“Our dedication to enhancing our culture of safety and being proactive and predictive to address problems before they occur has never been stronger.”
The FAA’s approval of Tradewind’s SMS aligns with the company’s commitment to flying personal and flying safe.
Founded in 2001 by Eric and David Zipkin who have turned their passion for flying into the leading regional private operator, Tradewind provides personal air travel—both private and scheduled service—throughout North America and the Caribbean.
Tradewind believes that every single flight is an opportunity to create an exceptional client experience with their people, planes, and personal service.
Their unique approach to flying is less harrowing than flying commercial and more intimate than flying private. It is flying personal. And it is what they strive for every day.
Tradewind provides unique and efficient private travel solutions for leisure or business travel, with access to hundreds of airports throughout North America including the Southeast, as well as the Caribbean in their modern fleet of Pilatus PC-12 and Citation CJ3 Jet aircraft.
Tradewind also provides scheduled service to top leisure destinations throughout the Northeast and Caribbean, including Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Newport, St Barths, Anguilla, Virgin Gorda, and Antigua.
Tradewind’s vision is for an elevated flight experience that is streamlined and understated, where every flight deserves the highest quality aircraft, crew, and service, giving passengers control over their own time and confidence in their travels.
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