Ethics in Aviation

    This photo is from a detachment to Alaska that my squadron VP-1 went on. The things that go into an event like this are pretty substantial as it requires manning, logistics, qualifications, communication, and lots of money just to get to a destination. When it comes to so many moving parts ethics becomes so important, not just to ensure that supplies get where they need to through the proper channels but also when you consider the lives at stake. 

    That may seem like an over the top view to some but it is true. Take my job for example, as an avionics technician, I ensure that communication, navigation, weapon systems, electronic warfare suites, and more are all functional. Should I botch a job that could lead to systems shorting, not only potentially causing a fire but that could lead to navigational systems failing and very easily causing a crash. A fire in an aircraft is serious, it isn't like a car where you can just pull over and get out. Being honest about your work and ensuring that it is done correctly within specified limits is crucial. Taking a less severe look on the aircraft itself, lets say I incorrectly install our onboard camera. My aircraft also performs Search and Rescue operations. If my aircrew go out to a ship at sea and can't find a crew member who was swept overboard because the Infrared doesn't work or maybe all imagery is lost, it is my fault now that that person may not be found. 

    Ethics is important because there is almost no margin for error when an aircraft is operating. Failed missions can lead to loss of life just as much as the loss of an aircraft. If you can't say you did a job correctly, or that you verified someone elses work, and yet you say it is good or done, it has consequences. Honesty and integrity are paramount. 

    I will leave you with one last thing. I have had this crash burned into my mind now for years because I am a maintenance tech and I don't want it to be me. Helios Airways Flight 522. All 121 people onboard were killed because after maintenance did a pressure check, they left cabin pressurization on manual. The flight crew also missed this on preflight, after start, and take off checks. I never want to be "that guy" because it would haunt me if it was my fault. 

For your reading pleasure if you wish to do so.

What caused the crash of Helios Airways Flight 522 in 2005? (2021, April 30) Jake Hardiman https://simpleflying.com/helios-airways-flight-522/