Safety Intelligence in Aviation: Thinking Outside the box

Recent fatal accidents in aviation have once again highlighted the critical importance of safety and the need for continuous advancement in safety management approaches. Over the years, the accumulation of vast amounts of safety data and information has not only enhanced our understanding of operational risks but has also introduced new challenges related to data complexity, interpretation, and effective utilization. The increasing complexity of aviation operations, coupled with the rapid growth of data-driven technologies, has further challenged traditional safety management approaches that are predominantly reactive and compliance-based.In this context, the concept of safety intelligence has emerged as a promising paradigm that transforms raw operational data into actionable insights for proactive and predictive safety decision-making. This review article synthesizes existing literature on safety intelligence, safety management systems, human factors, and data analytics to provide a comprehensive conceptual understanding of safety intelligence in aviation. Particular attention is given to the integration of data-driven approaches with human interpretation, organizational learning, and safety culture.The ultimate goal of this line of research has become increasingly evident in light of recent aviation accidents, emphasizing the need for a deeper and more holistic understanding of safety intelligence to enhance global flight safety.