Date

11-13-2025

Department

School of Aeronautics

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Aviation (PhD)

Chair

Mitch Morrison

Keywords

Transformational leadership, safety culture, aircraft maintenance technicians, AMTs, aviation safety, technical operations, qualitative research, phenomenology, leadership behavior, incident reporting

Disciplines

Aviation | Leadership Studies

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore how leadership styles affect the safety practices and overall performance of aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs) in aviation Technical Operations (TechOps) environments. The study built on previous research indicating that safe and efficient aircraft operations depend on numerous technical and social processes. It focused on the comprehensive lived experiences of AMTs as they related to leadership influence on safety. The transformational leadership theory and safety culture theory guided the study, aligning with the inquiry by explaining how leaders could influence the behavior, motivation, and safety practices of AMTs. Ensuring the safety of AMTs is vital to maintaining overall aviation safety. A qualitative phenomenological research design was employed, using a purposive sample of AMTs, leads, and managers working in aviation TechOps at a major U.S.-based airline. The researcher conducted semi-structured field interviews with open-ended questions to collect data and used thematic analysis to identify patterns and meanings from participant responses. The findings reveal that leadership styles have a significant impact on safety compliance as well as on team morale and operational outcomes. Transformational and servant leadership approaches correlate with higher adherence to safety protocols, while disengaged leadership undermines accountability. The study provides actionable insights for leadership development programs and safety initiatives in aviation maintenance, emphasizing communication, visibility, and technician inclusion.

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