The FAA and NTSB have done commendable jobs focusing on the prevention of loss of control in general aviation flights. Both agencies have engaged general aviation alphabet groups and pilots themselves in a sustained effort to decrease GA crashes, in particular fatal crashes caused by loss of control in flight (LOC). According to the NTSB, nearly half of all GA accidents are caused by loss of control in flight. LOC remains the biggest killer in GA accidents, according to the NTSB’s data of accidents from 2008 to 2014. The FAA’s data shows similar results regarding the impact of LOC on GA fatalities. In-flight loss of control—mainly stalls—accounts for the largest number of fatal GA accidents. While fatal GA accidents are trending down, there were still 209 fatal accidents in Fiscal Year 2017 that resulted in the deaths of 347 people.
Part of the FAA’s focus on preventing loss of control in flight has been a focus on emphasizing to GA pilots the importance of establishing and maintaining a stabilized approach and landing. In addition, the FAA has emphasized the importance of a go-around if factors for a stabilized approach are not met. These factors are worth repeating:
With more than 40 years experience in the aviation industry, The Honorable John Goglia, was the first and only Airframe and Powerplant mechanic to receive a presidential appointment to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). He served from August 1995 to June 2004.
As a Board Member, Mr. Goglia distinguished himself in numerous areas of transportation safety. In particular, he was instrumental in raising awareness of airport safety issues, including the importance of airport crash fire and rescue operations and the dangers of wildlife at airports. He played a key role in focusing international attention on the increasing significance of aircraft maintenance in aviation accidents. He pressed, successfully, for greater integration of civilian and military safety information, becoming a featured speaker at national aviation symposiums attended by military leaders and major defense contractors. He is a leading proponent of airplane child safety seats.
Prior to becoming a Board Member, Mr. Goglia held numerous positions in the airline industry. He started as a mechanic for United Airlines and eventually joined Allegheny, which became USAir. Additionally, he was involved for more than 20 years as a union flight safety representative on accident investigation teams. There, he developed a safety program for his union, the International Association of Machinists, and was its representative for NTSB investigations. For twelve years, he operated his own aircraft service company.
Numerous prestigious groups have recognized Mr. Goglia’s contributions to aviation safety. Aviation Week & Space Technology awarded him a coveted 2004 Laurel for his outstanding service as an NTSB Board member. The Society of Automotive Engineers presented him with the Aerospace Chair Award for outstanding leadership in 2003 and the Marvin Whitlock Award for outstanding management accomplishment in 2002.
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