See something, say something

All too often, RAAus investigates a serious or fatal accident only to be informed by locals that the pilots were known to regularly operate outside the rules, have a reputation for operating recklessly, or have been involved in accidents or incidents that have gone unreported. This highlights the concern that people are failing to meet their reporting obligations under the TSI Act, but also, that others may be turning a blind eye to members who are not adhering to the rules. So why do matters go unreported? Often it is assumed by third parties that those involved have fulfilled their reporting requirements, however this may not always be the case. RAAus encourages all members to report anything they see, even if they are not directly involved. If an occurrence has already been reported by the responsible person then RAAus can link reports received from third parties, however, if they have not yet been reported it allows RAAus to follow up with the members involved. If you have witnessed an occurrence you can always contact RAAus via phone or email to notify them in case this has not yet been reported, or submit a report online within the RAAus Occurrence Management System (OMS). The occurrence had nothing to do with me, why should I report it? At the end of the day, safety is everyone’s responsibility. We all operate within the same airspace and we are only as safe as the weakest link operating within our airspace. This does not mean that RAAus wants reports to punish members, however if we are made aware of an incident or accident or of pilot conducting unsafe operations, it allows follow up with the member involved, ultimately improving safety for everyone.

What is an example of something I should report? Reporting requirements are outlined clearly within the RAAus website, however if you see or become aware of any of the following events, then this should be reported: –Accident or incident –Runway loss of control or ground-loop –Pilot who avoids making necessary radio calls –Unauthorised low flying –Reckless behaviour –Operation of an unregistered aircraft –Pilot operating without a current membership –Near miss event RAAus can ensure that your details remain confidential if reporting an event that you have witnessed, however we can only act on the information we know. Unfortunately, we occasionally become aware of additional information only after an accident has already occurred. So remember - See something, say something, and help improve the safety culture for everyone.

In 2020 RAAus would like to share more member flying experiences involving close calls, incidents or accidents, or stories of when pilots got things wrong.

If you have an experience you believe could help others, please send a copy to safety@raaus.com.au

Future editions of Licence To Learn will be delivered to RAAus subscribers digitally as part of our regular safety updates. To make sure you don’t miss out, visit our website to subscribe to our newsletters today. RAAUS.COM.AU

Additional Aviation Safety Resources: members.raa.asn.au/safety/ www.airservicesaustralia.com/publications/safety-publications/ www.casa.gov.au/publications-and-resources www.defence.gov.au/DASP/Media/DASAPublications.asp airports.asn.au/airport-safety-week-resources/ www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute

QBE MATT HALL