EASA SIB 2015-13: Safety Management of Flight Operations in Adverse Convective Weather and the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone

What to do

Operators should assess their exposure to ITCZ-related risks and implement data-driven safety management strategies, including predictive hazard identification and flight data monitoring. Flight planning must consider weather contingencies with appropriate fuel policies and equipment reliability. Personnel competency should be ensured through targeted training and skill assessments. National Aviation Authorities should evaluate and oversee operators' risk assessments and mitigation measures. No explicit compliance deadlines are stated.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2015-13 provides guidance on the safety management of flight operations in adverse convective weather and the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). It addresses the risks of loss of control in flight (LOC-I) associated with thunderstorms, turbulence, icing, and other hazards typical in the ITCZ, emphasizing the need for comprehensive risk mitigation strategies. The bulletin is applicable to National Aviation Authorities and Commercial Air Transport operators conducting multi-pilot operations.

What changed

This new safety information bulletin introduces recommendations for proactive safety management practices specifically targeting flight operations in adverse convective weather and the ITCZ. It highlights the importance of hazard identification, data monitoring, and strategic and tactical weather avoidance to prevent LOC-I accidents. The bulletin consolidates best practices and references multiple international safety standards and research findings to support operators in managing these risks.

Why it matters

This bulletin is crucial for aviation professionals as it addresses a major cause of accidents—loss of control in flight due to adverse weather conditions common in the ITCZ. Operators and regulators must understand and mitigate these risks to enhance flight safety, especially in regions with frequent convective weather hazards. Implementing the recommended safety management principles helps improve operational decision-making, pilot training, and overall risk awareness, reducing the likelihood of weather-related incidents.