NOVA Privacy Policy

Last updated: 13th March, 2025

1. Introduction

Welcome to NOVA (No Fear Operational Vigilance in Army Aviation), a safety reporting system developed to enhance operational safety and mitigate hazards in Army Aviation. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal and operational data when you use the NOVA system.

By accessing and using NOVA, you consent to the collection, storage, use, and disclosure of your information as described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information (Optional)

  • Name (if provided)
  • Rank/Position (if applicable)
  • Contact Information (email, phone number, unit)
  • Login Credentials (if system requires user authentication)

2.2 Incident & Operational Data

  • Date and Time of Incident
  • Location of Incident
  • Incident Type (e.g., Equipment Failure, Human Error, Environmental Hazard, etc.)
  • Incident Description
  • Corrective Actions Taken
  • Supporting Documentation (e.g., photos, flight logs, maintenance records, etc.)

3. How We Use Your Information

  • To enhance aviation safety and reduce operational hazards
  • To analyze trends and improve risk mitigation procedures
  • To facilitate communication between aviation personnel and safety officers
  • To generate reports and recommendations for safety improvements
  • To comply with Army Aviation safety regulations and policies

We do not use your personal information for commercial purposes or share it with unauthorized third parties.

4. Data Protection & Security

We take data security seriously and implement industry-standard measures to protect the confidentiality and integrity of reported information. These measures include:

  • Role-Based Access Control: Only authorized safety personnel and administrators can access sensitive data
  • Data Encryption: Data is encrypted both in transit and at rest to prevent unauthorized access
  • Secure Storage: Reports and associated data are stored on secure Army networks and servers
  • Audit Logs: All data access and modifications are logged for accountability

Despite these measures, no system is entirely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. Users are encouraged to report any security concerns.

5. Data Retention & Deletion

Incident reports and safety-related data are retained in accordance with Army Aviation safety regulations and record-keeping policies. The retention period may vary depending on the severity and type of incident.

Users who voluntarily provide personal data may request its removal from our system unless required for official investigations or compliance with military safety policies.

6. Sharing of Information

We may share information collected through NOVA under the following circumstances:

  • With Authorized Safety Personnel: Reports are shared with designated safety officers, commanders, and aviation leadership to assess risks and take corrective action
  • For Investigations & Compliance: Data may be shared with Army safety boards, military regulatory bodies, or legal entities conducting safety investigations
  • For Trend Analysis & Safety Training: Aggregated, anonymized data may be used for research, training, and briefing purposes to enhance safety awareness

We do not sell or share personal or operational data with commercial entities or unauthorized individuals.

7. User Rights & Responsibilities

  • Right to Report Without Fear: Reports are handled with confidentiality and non-punitive intent unless gross negligence or misconduct is identified
  • Responsibility to Provide Accurate Information: Users must ensure report accuracy to support effective safety investigations
  • Right to Anonymity: Users can report anonymously, though this may limit follow-up actions
  • Responsibility to Report Ethically: Misuse of NOVA may result in disciplinary action

8. Third-Party Links & External Content

The NOVA system may contain links to Army Aviation policies, safety databases, or external military resources. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external websites.

9. Updates to This Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in security protocols, regulatory requirements, or system enhancements. Users will be notified of significant changes through official channels.

10. Contact Information

NOVA System Administrator

DC Army Aviation Command Safety Office

Email: sterling.s.sylver.mil@army.mil

Phone: 301-358-0641

By using NOVA, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy and agree to its terms.