What does ethics in the Aviation Profession mean to me?

    According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the definition of ethics is "a set of moral principles: a theory or system of moral values." In other words, ethics focuses on how individuals behave morally and how that affects society. In order to be good citizens, it also enables us to distinguish between what is morally right and wrong and is connected to principles like transparency, integrity, respect, and dedication. Knowing this definition, what does professional ethics mean?

Professional ethics are rules of conduct that specify what members of a profession should and should not do when engaged in that field (Bhasin, 2020). This means that professional ethics are the principles and duties that a professional must fulfil to achieve an optimal work result, even if a complex situation arises that implies making a decision to achieve the common welfare. Although quality training and values are important in any field, they are even more so in professions linked to the safety of people with direct responsibility for the life and well-being of others, as is the case of workers in the aviation industry. Jeff Wofford, who is an aviation director for an NC- based Company and a chief pilot said "Professionalism in aviation is the pursuit of doing it right, all the time, even when nobody's looking. The discipline and ethical behavior of professionalism go hand in hand with safety. You have to do the same thing every flight. There are no shortcuts” ("National Business Aviation Association," 2018). Obviously, like every human being, you can find situations where there are failures or non-compliance with procedures and it is precisely where ethics and morals must prevail more than ever. Workers in the aviation ruble must be clear that the lives of many people are in their hands, this is one of the main reasons why ethics in aviation is important, therefore; aviation workers must make sure they do their job well, going through all the safety regulations, not relying on their knowledge as it could affect their job performance. Be clear about what they were taught to do and not do, and follow the procedures as they are. 

References

Bhasin, H. (2020, May 6). What are professional ethics? Examples and types. Marketing91. https://www.marketing91.com/professional-ethics/

Professionalism, ethical behavior leads to safe operations. (2018, May 7). NBAA - National Business Aviation Association. https://nbaa.org/aircraft-operations/safety/professionalism-in-business-aviation/professionalism-ethical-behavior-leads-safe-operations/