MBFHA: A Framework for Model‐Based Functional Hazard Assessment for Aircraft Systems

Abstract

To address growing system complexity in the aerospace industry, a Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach has been increasingly adopted for the development of aircraft systems. This calls for a corresponding approach for performing safety assessment to maintain consistency between the system and safety domains. One of the key safety assessment processes for aircraft development is the Functional Hazard Assessment (FHA). The purpose of this paper is to build upon previously published works and introduce the MBFHA framework which describes the language, method, and tool needed for implementing a model‐based approach to performing FHA and integrating it into MBSE activities. A customised FHA profile is introduced for the modelling language, an overall workflow along with processes for FHA report and safety requirements generation is presented for the method, and a list of tool constraints is provided. A proof‐of‐concept is subsequently presented using safety data for the landing gear extension and retraction system of a generic business aircraft.