Risk Factors Affecting Flight Operations of Aviation Unit under the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Thailand has been affected by both natural and man-made disasters which have caused damage to lives, property, and the economy, in many areas including that of remote and hard to reach locations. In response, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has deployed rotary-wing aircraft to support various disaster relief missions, such as wildfire suppression and flood rescues. These missions are inherently high-risk, making safety in every operation a top priority for the aviation unit. The objectives of this study were to: (1) analyze the risk factors affecting flight operations, and (2) provide guidelines on the management of risk reduction in the flight operations of the Aviation Unit

Methodology: This qualitative study employed in-depth interviews with 27 officers whose jobs were related to cooperating with the rescue teams. These interviewees were divided into three groups. Group one consisted of four executive officers responsible for organization management and establishing policies related to rescue missions and disaster mitigation, while group two consisted of five supervisors responsible for commanding or directing rescue missions. Group three consisted of 18 rescue officers. The information obtained from the interviews was analyzed by classifying, data grouping, and synthesizing risk values according to risk assessment in aviation safety. A risk assessment matrix was employed to provide chances and effects of accidents that led to the establishment of guidelines on the management of risk reduction in any organization.

Main Results: The results of this study revealed that risk factors affecting flight operations consist of five factors: people, environment, aircraft, management, and missions. When conducting assessments by the risk assessment matrix, it was found that 18 unbearable risk factors needed to be reduced or ceased altogether, while three bearable risk factors required decisions to be made regarding their acceptance along with guidelines on risk management. The levels of all risk factors should be managed as follows: (1) Encourage the executive officers, supervisors, and rescue officers to be knowledgeable, have more practice and training, and to develop language skills;  (2) Allocate the right personnel for the right missions; (3) Consider personnel recruitment on education qualifications, background knowledge, skills, and experiences relevant to the required missions; (4) Consider proper aircraft for the missions; and (5) Establish an organization to direct and supervise mission standards such as aviation safety regulations.

Discussions: The findings are consistent with the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) and Swiss Cheese Model. Risk factors are not solely attributed to frontline personnel but arise through a hierarchical chain-from top-level executives to supervisors and operators. Leadership knowledge, awareness, and commitment significantly influence the operational capability at all levels. Crucially, the absence of a robust safety culture within an organization undermines sustainable risk management, regardless of the structural frameworks in place.

Conclusions: Effective operation of aviation units requires systemic collaboration across all organizational levels, from policymakers to operational staff. Developing a strong safety culture and implementing a clear risk management system are imperative. The study's outcomes can serve as a guideline for improving the performance of flight missions, ensuring long-term safety for lives, property, and operational personnel.