Aviation Safety Manager

Career Guide

Aviation Safety Managers lead an organization’s safety management system, monitor risks, and investigate incidents to prevent recurrence. They design safety policies, run audits and training, analyze safety data, and ensure compliance with FAA and international standards across flight and maintenance operations.

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Key Responsibilities

Lead the Safety Management System (SMS) per FAA/ICAO standards
Conduct safety risk assessments and hazard analyses
Investigate incidents/accidents and perform root cause analysis
Plan and execute internal safety audits and inspections
Manage safety reporting programs (ASAP, FOQA) and analyze trends
Develop and deliver safety training and communications
Maintain the emergency response plan and coordinate drills

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Director of Safety

Chief Safety Officer

Quality and Safety Director

Vice President, Safety

Transition Opportunities

Aviation Safety Consultant

Airport Operations Manager

Quality/Compliance Manager (Aerospace)

Accident Investigator

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Hands-on SMS implementation and safety assuranceFAA regulatory compliance across Parts 121/135/145Accident/incident investigation methodologiesSafety data analysis and trend monitoring (e.g., FOQA)

Development SuggestionsComplete FAA/ICAO SMS coursework and a recognized accident investigation course; participate in internal audits and safety committees to gain applied experience with investigations and data trend analysis.

Market Intelligence Report

Aviation Safety Manager is part of the Risk Management category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

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Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry Level$80,000-$100,000

Mid Level$100,000-$135,000

Senior Level$135,000-$170,000

Growth Trend

growing: FAA expansion of SMS to Part 135/145 and steady air travel demand

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Delta Air LinesUnited AirlinesSouthwest Airlines

Industry Sectors

AirlinesAirports and Airport AuthoritiesAerospace manufacturing and maintenance

Recommended Next Steps

Complete an Aviation SMS certificate program (e.g., Embry‑Riddle or FAA-endorsed) and OSHA 30-Hour General Industry

Take an aviation accident investigation course (e.g., USC Aviation Safety & Security Program) and lead a small investigation or hazard analysis at your current organization

Join and engage with professional groups (Flight Safety Foundation, IS-BAO workshops), and conduct a mock safety audit to build a portfolio of safety deliverables