Exploring unstable approaches in aviation: utilising functional resonance analysis method

Abstract

Unstable approaches are one of the main safety concerns that contribute to approach and landing accidents. The International Air Transport Association reports that, between 2012 and 2016, 61% of accidents occurred during the approach and landing phase, of which 16% involved unstable approaches. This study addresses this issue by applying the Functional Resonance Analysis Method to examine the dynamics of stable approaches. A total of 195 aviation safety reports, which referred to near-miss data from a single airline, were used in the analysis to identify both actual and aggregated variability. The findings revealed that variability mainly occurred in the following functions: control speed, configure aircraft for landing, communicate with air traffic control and manage flight paths. Effective communication, coordination and collaboration, as well as monitoring, briefings and checklists, were key factors in managing the variability of a stable approach. The study reveals how adopting a perspective of ‘how things go right’ provides insightful findings regarding approach stability, complementing traditional approaches focused on ‘what went wrong’. This study also highlights the value of utilising the Functional Resonance Analysis Method to analyse near-miss data and uncover systemic patterns in everyday flight operations.