Α proposed organizational structure that contributes to the efficient handling of risk in an approved training organization (ATO)

Abstract

Approved training organizations (ATOs) have a significant role in the aviation industry. Τhese organizations should efficiently handle a high level of risk, implementing an efficient risk management system, in line with the adoption of a supportive organizational structure. These two concepts are related and their appropriate implementation can lead to the operation's optimization in specific ATO. The examination of this relationship consists of the main objective of the current study. International and national regulations influence ATO's operation in a high degree. The study examined the case of Turkish Eskisehir's Technical University (ESTU) ATO, an outstanding organization, which provides superior services to trainees. All the School employees participated in the current study (n = 18). In-depth interviews, access to relevant documents and one-day workshops were conducted focusing on the examined issues. Significant and useful outcomes were generated. A risk framework that indicates how the ESTU ATO handles the risk and an organizational structure with specific positions and duties were proposed, and the linkage of both concepts facilitates the efficient handling of risk. The current study contributes to aviation business management, strategy literature and the ATO efficient operation.