An upcoming NBAA safety resource offers guidance on preventing runway excursions on takeoff and landing, which remain a significant safety concern throughout business aviation. “Runway excursion avoidance begins well before the flight,” advises Mike Thomas, a captain and aviation safety manager for a Fortune 500 flight operation. “From the day that you get that trip on the schedule, take a look at the airports that you plan to use for both favorable and unfavorable weather well ahead of time, and check the performance numbers for dry, wet and contaminated [conditions].”
In this episode of NBAA’s “Flight Plan,” host Rob Finfrock speaks with two NBAA Safety Committee members:
Marty Plumleigh, SMS manager and aviation safety technical lead, Boeing Digital Solutions and Analytics
Mike Thomas, captain and aviation safety manager for a Fortune 500 flight operation
The NBAA Flight Plan podcast, which ran from 2009 to 2025, provided an overview of important developments affecting NBAA members, and the association’s work to advocate for their interest. The archive of past episodes will remain available for your enjoyment. Please note that no new episodes will be released.
The National Pause for General Aviation Safety is an industry-wide initiative, supported by NBAA, which encourages pilots and operators to take the time to proactively address complacency, communication breakdowns and other potential issues affecting our industry.
Professional development plays a crucial role in advancing a career in business aviation, but it can be difficult for the industry's young professionals to find the time - and finances - to pursue opportunities for growth. However, there are many paths that can yield a valuable "return on you," that are worth seeking out.