Enhance your Aviation Board's Governance with Expert Briefings on Safety Accountabilities
At NW Advisory Services, we understand that effective governance is a key component of an organisation’s Safety Management System.
Recent engagements have highlighted the first step for a Board seeking to strengthen its oversight is a comprehensive briefing on Board accountabilities under Section 28BE of the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (Cth).
Why Section 28BE Matters
Section 28BE imposes a clear obligation on Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) holders and their directors to ensure that all activities under the AOC are conducted with a reasonable degree of care and diligence. This duty is not just a regulatory requirement, it’s a commitment to safeguarding the safety, reputation, and resilience of your organisation. Failure to meet these obligations can lead to severe consequences, including personal liability for directors and possible regulatory enforcement action by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
Our recent work with several complex air transport operators underscores the importance of understanding these responsibilities. Drawing on real-world examples like the Monarch Airlines VH-NDU incident (Young, NSW, 1992), we highlight the tangible risks of inadequate oversight and the critical need for effective governance.
The Power of Expert Briefings
A tailored briefing on Section 28BE accountabilities equips your board with the knowledge to:
Understand legal obligations: Gain clarity on the Civil Aviation Act, Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASRs), and the role of Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
Foster a healthy safety culture: Learn how to embed safety as a core value, protecting your brand and stakeholders.
Mitigate risks: Identify and address gaps in corporate management, employee supervision, and communication systems to avoid liability and ensure compliance.
Oversee operations effectively: Empower your board to provide meaningful oversight of key personnel, including the CEO, Head of Flying Operations, and Safety Manager, as outlined in CASR Part 119.
A Collaborative Approach
NW Advisory Services, we are proud to partner with Norton White Lawyers (www.nortonwhite.com), a leading firm with unparalleled expertise in aviation law. Together, we deliver engaging, practical, and authoritative presentations that bring clarity to complex regulatory frameworks. Our collaborative sessions combine legal expertise with strategic advisory insights, ensuring your board is well-equipped to navigate the challenges of aviation governance.
Take the First Step
A briefing on Section 28BE is more than a compliance exercise, it’s a proactive investment in your Board’s ability to lead with confidence and assurance. Whether you’re part of a regional operator or a global carrier, understanding your obligations is the foundation of effective governance.
Let’s connect to discuss how NW Advisory can safeguard and grow your aviation investments.
NW Advisory Services, specialise in regulatory compliance, safety management, and operational optimisation for the Australian aviation industry.
Visit www.nwadvisory.com.au for more information.
Craig Martin
Director, NW Advisory Services