Join us for the next online IFA event. An Online Presentation followed by Q&A with Raj De, Safety & Engineering Leader, on his paper “Enhancement of Risk Control Measures to Mitigate Aircraft Maintenance Errors in Critical Tasks”
Monday 18th May 2026, Online (Zoom) 12:00 GMT
Enchancement of Risk Control Measures to Mitigate Aircraft Maintenance Errors in Critical Tasks by Raj De
Abstract
Aviation safety is intrinsically tied to effective aircraft maintenance, which ensures operational reliability and prevents accidents. In a sector as regulated and dynamic as aviation, maintenance errors—though often minor—pose significant risks to safety. These errors, typically hard to detect immediately, can remain dormant, potentially jeopardizing aircraft and passenger safety over time. This research focuses on identifying the root causes of maintenance errors, evaluating the effectiveness of current risk control measures, and proposing enhancements to minimise errors during critical maintenance tasks. The study adopts a qualitative approach, conducting in-depth interviews with 13 industry professionals across different roles within engineering and maintenance departments. Using NVivo software for thematic analysis, the research provides a nuanced understanding of maintenance errors and their organizational and procedural contexts. Insights derived from the study are grounded in the perspectives of experienced practitioners, ensuring relevance and applicability to real-world scenarios. The study highlights organizational challenges that impede the implementation of effective risk controls. Resistance to adopting new measures, especially among seasoned engineers, was a recurring theme. Participants also noted the lack of a robust feedback mechanism following task completion. The current certification system primarily relies on task sign-off, which fails to provide actionable insights or address skill gaps. This shortfall weakens the overall control cycle and prevents continuous improvement in maintenance standards.
The application of existing frameworks including the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) and Leveson’s Systems-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes (STAMP), provides actionable insights into reducing maintenance errors. It identifies systemic weaknesses, such as the lack of a feedback loop in task completion and the partial implementation of technological tools, which have significant implications for safety management. By addressing these gaps, the aviation industry can create a more resilient maintenance ecosystem. Aircraft maintenance remains a cornerstone of aviation safety, yet the persistence of maintenance errors highlights the need for continuous improvement in risk control measures. This research underscores the importance of addressing procedural deviations, complacency, and organizational barriers through a multifaceted approach. By integrating advanced technologies, enhancing training programs, and fostering a robust safety culture, the aviation industry can mitigate maintenance errors and uphold its commitment to safety. The study’s findings and recommendations provide a roadmap for industry stakeholders to navigate the challenges of maintaining safety in a rapidly evolving environment. As the aviation sector continues to recover and adapt post-COVID, these insights offer valuable guidance for sustaining operational excellence and safeguarding lives.
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More on our Speaker, Raj De
“It’s a real privilege to be speaking at the next clinic of the International Federation of Airworthiness among so many colleagues dedicated to advancing global airworthiness standards.
I currently serve as Group Head of Aviation Engineering Standards at Babcock International, where I lead policy and governance initiatives to ensure the highest levels of safety and engineering assurance across our aviation operations in the UK, Europe, Canada and Australia. My role focuses on translating regulatory intent into practical, operationally robust standards that stand up to real-world complexity.
Previously, at easyJet, I held Safety Manager responsibilities across CAMO, Part 145 and Part 21 Design Organisation environments, serving as a Nominated Person with direct accountability to executive leadership. That experience, spanning line and base maintenance, maintenance control, systems engineering, airworthiness and maintenance planning, has shaped my operationally grounded approach to safety leadership.
Academically, I hold an MSc in Aviation Safety Management, Risks and Regulations, as well as an MBA focused on organisational and financial strategy, innovation and business transformation.
At the core of my work is a simple commitment: to strengthen safety culture, embed continuous improvement, and ensure that engineering standards are not just compliant, but resilient, adaptable and truly protective of the flying public.
I look forward to sharing insights with you and to the discussion that follows.”
