This paper introduces aviation safety data analysis as an important application area for data mining. Safety is a key strategic management concern for safety-critical industries and management needs new, more efficient tools and methods for more effective management routines. The aviation field is confronted with increasing challenges to provide safe and fluent services. Air travel has grown steadily during the last decades with a direct impact on the air traffic control. At the same time, the competition has become tougher because of increasing fuel prices and growing demand for air travel.