Southwest Airlines Co. has announced a significant achievement in its dedication to safety and its transformative journey with the successful completion of the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA). This audit is a key initiative of the International Air Transport Association.
IOSA serves as a globally recognized evaluation framework aimed at assessing the operational management and control systems of airlines. By fulfilling the rigorous criteria set forth by IOSA, Southwest Airlines has secured a place on the IOSA Registry for a duration of two years. To maintain this status, all IOSA-certified airlines are required to undergo a subsequent audit.
The foundational principles of IOSA encompass safety, effectiveness, and integrity. The initial audit evaluated safety standards across all operational sectors, including manuals, procedures, and safety programs. Participation in IOSA is a prerequisite for membership in IATA.