Issue: go around

Issues arising from go-arounds, often human factors related.

What can CASR Part 121 operators do?

While a go around is a normal process, it only happens occasionally. You should make sure your flight crew know when to start a go-around at any stage during any approach.

Standard operating procedures as well as training must adequately prepare flight crew to go around when required.

Smaller operators could consider adopting:

  • Flight Data Analysis Program (FDAP)
  • Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA)
  • Line Observation Safety Audit (LOSA).

This will allow enhanced insights into their normal operations. It will also improve the understanding of unstable approaches pre-cursor events that are resulting in go-arounds.

What is CASA doing or has already delivered?

CASR Part 121.200 requires operators to have procedures around stabilised approaches including when a go around is required.

The AMC/GM Australian air transport operations – larger aeroplanes advocates for operators SOPs to include the operator’s policy on the criteria for a mandatory go-around. You should reinforce this policy through training.

We have updated and released guidance on Flight Data Analysis Programmes (FDAP) air transport operations through AC 119-04. This AC provides:

  • a description of the relationship between safety management systems (SMS) and FDAP
  • an overview of the key elements and guidance for the establishment
  • implementation of an FDAP.
Published date: 18 September 2023
Online version available at: https://www.casa.gov.au//index.php/operations-safety-and-travel/safety-management-systems/sector-safety-risk-profiles/larger-aeroplanes-sector-safety-risk-profile/issue-go-around
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