Uniform rotorcraft guidelines for quantitative risk assessment

Abstract

Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) is an effective element of the Safety Risk Management process that augments qualitative methods used in the past. QRA is based on Life Data Analysis [1] and can accurately predict future risk by analyzing the risk without corrective action (uncorrected risk), and then analyzing the risk with specific mitigating actions implemented (corrected risk). Before 2013, there was no uniformity among QRA limits or guidelines in the rotorcraft industry. A benchmarking activity was initiated to document the basis of established QRA risk guidelines in use or recommended by helicopter and engine manufacturers, regulatory authorities, and academia. Benchmarking is a focused process that enables changes that can lead to improvements in products, processes, and services. The anticipated outcome is a comparison of the performance level and best practices of numerous organizations in managing processes and procedures, which can improve the standard of operational excellence. The benchmarking process resulted in the significant milestone of industry/government agreement on uniform definitions and risk guidelines (numerical parameters) for all rotorcraft and for engines installed on multi engine rotorcraft. The new guidelines were adopted by consensus of the group and have been promulgated by incorporation into the FAA Rotorcraft Risk Analysis Handbook for application in the rotary wing aircraft industry. This work can serve as a model for other safety critical fields where standardized Quantitative Risk definitions and guidelines are needed.