IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA)

Last update: 3-7-2023

IOSA is a globally recognized industry standard for promoting and ensuring airline operational safety. It was officially launched on 1 July 2003 as part of IATA’s safety strategy.

By 2006, IOSA reached digital maturity and began focusing on risk-based auditing to meet industry needs and ensure audit integrity.

IATA IOSA Goals

Standardized and cost-effective audit program
System of audit sharing
Improved operational safety
Global aviation safety
Reduced audit duplication

Sources for IOSA ISARPs

ISARPs are based on safety and security requirements from ICAO Annexes to the Convention on International Civil Aviation.

IATA Membership vs IOSA Audit

All IATA members must be IOSA registered. As of June 2025, over 440 airlines benefit from IOSA, including non-IATA members. Source : ICAO

IOSA Audit Scope

Organization and Management System (ORG)
Flight Operations (FLT)
Flight Dispatch (DSP)
Engineering and Maintenance (MNT)
Cabin Operations (CAB)
Ground Handling (GRH)
Cargo Operations (CGO)
Security Management (SEC)

IOSA Audit Strength

Between 2018–2022, IOSA-certified airlines had a crash rate three times lower than non-certified airlines. Passengers trust IOSA-certified airlines for their safety standards.

Why Some Airlines Avoid IOSA

Poor safety culture
Lack of leadership
Optional nature of IOSA
Cost concerns
Limited professional staff
Fear of failure
Resistance to change
Unstable operations
No competition
Lack of customer awareness

Why Risk-Based IOSA?

Risk-Based IOSA focuses on each operator’s unique safety risks instead of applying a one-size-fits-all approach. It improves audit effectiveness while maintaining safety standards.

The transition to Risk-Based IOSA began in 2023 and will complete by 2025.

Summary

IATA IOSA aligns with ICAO Annexes 1, 2, 6, 8, 17, 18, 19, EASA, FAA, and regulatory oversight. Standards are updated regularly.

For more information, visit the IATA website.