What does "SOP" stand for in aviation?

In aviation, "SOP" stands for Standard Operating Procedure, which is a set of written instructions that outline the steps necessary to perform specific tasks correctly and safely. SOPs are crucial in the aviation industry as they ensure consistency, safety, and efficiency in operations. By following established procedures, pilots, air traffic controllers, and other personnel can minimize errors and enhance safety. SOPs help to standardize processes so that all team members are aligned and can respond uniformly to various situations, thereby reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or mistakes that could lead to accidents. This structured approach is foundational in maintaining high safety standards in aviation.