Inspector General Report Signals Dangerous Air Safety Complacency

Episode 17 The Department of Transportation's Inspector General's office recently issued a scathing report about failures in Southwest Airlines' safety practices and culture [https://www.oig.dot.gov/sites/default/files/FAA%20Oversight%20of%20Southwest%20Airlines%20Final%20Report%5E02.11.2020.pdf]. The report also criticizes the Federal Aviation Administration's inspectors and leaders assigned to monitor Southwest for lax and ineffective safety oversight of the airline. John and Greg discuss the issues found at Southwest, and broaden the discussion to US air safety practices in general. Air safety has been so good for so long -- are we getting dangerously complacent? John and Greg discuss recent and historical incidents and lay out the need for a reinvigorated commitment to safety procedures. The episode wraps with a new "What Would You Do" challenge that stems from the recent helicopter crash in California. If you were the pilot of a helicopter with a high-profile customer on board and deteriorating conditions, what would you do? Share your answer with John and Greg at [email protected].