The Role of Environmental Factors in Shaping Safety Climate in U.S.-Based Aviation MRO Organizations: A Study Replicating Fogarty’s Model

This study investigates the influence of environmental factors on the safety climate within U.S.-based Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) organizations, utilizing Fogarty’s (2005) Maintenance Environment Survey model. Key findings highlight that recognition, safety concerns, supervision, feedback, and training significantly shape perceptions of safety. Psychological strain, particularly stress and psychological distress, was shown to adversely impact maintenance errors and overall safety outcomes. The results strongly align with Fogarty’s model, emphasizing the interplay between environmental factors, psychological strain, and organizational safety performance. Practical implications include recommendations for enhancing safety climate through targeted training, infrastructure improvements, and alignment with regulatory standards. This research underscores the importance of fostering a positive safety climate to reduce maintenance errors and improve operational efficiency, while providing a foundation for future studies in high-risk industries.