The editor is the drafting workspace where you compose your mailing content and attach supporting files. This is where the substance of your communication takes shape before you move on to audience selection and delivery.
The subject line
Every mailing needs a subject line. This is the first thing recipients see in their inbox, and it largely determines whether they open the message.
When writing a subject line:
- Be specific about the content of the mailing. "Safety Notice: Updated Go-Around Procedures" is more effective than "Important Update."
- Keep it concise. Long subject lines may be truncated in email clients.
- Include relevant identifiers if applicable, such as a document reference number or aircraft type.
The body editor
The body editor is a rich-text editor that supports common formatting options. You can:
- Apply bold and italic styling to emphasise key points.
- Create numbered and bulleted lists to organise information clearly.
- Add links to external resources or internal references.
- Structure content with headings to break longer messages into readable sections.
The editor works similarly to standard word processing tools. Focus on writing clear, well-structured content that your audience can scan quickly.
Writing effective mailing content
- Start with the most important information. Recipients should understand the purpose of the mailing within the first few lines.
- Use short paragraphs and lists to make the content scannable.
- If action is required from the recipient, state it clearly and early.
- Avoid unnecessary jargon unless you are certain the audience will understand it.
Attachments
Attachments let you include files alongside your mailing. Common uses include:
- Forms -- documents that recipients need to fill out and return.
- Briefing documents -- detailed materials that supplement the message body.
- PDF notices -- formal notices, directives, or regulatory documents.
- Supplementary files -- any additional material that supports the communication, such as schedules, charts, or reference documents.
Adding attachments
- In the mailing editor, locate the attachments section.
- Select the option to add a file.
- Choose the file from your device.
- The attachment is added to the mailing. You can add multiple attachments.
Removing attachments
If you add a file by mistake or need to replace it with an updated version, remove the attachment and add the correct file.
Auto-save
The editor auto-saves your work as you compose. This means you do not lose progress if you navigate away or if your session is interrupted. When you return to the mailing, your most recent content, subject line, and attachments are preserved.
Auto-save does not send the mailing. Your draft remains private until you explicitly choose to send it.
Previewing your mailing
Before moving to audience selection and delivery, it is strongly recommended to preview how your mailing will look to recipients. The preview function lets you see the formatted message as it will appear in the recipient's inbox. Check for:
- Formatting issues such as broken links or inconsistent styling.
- Spelling and grammar errors.
- Correct attachment names and file sizes.
- Overall readability and structure.
For more details on sending a preview to a specific email address, see Delivery.
Common tasks
- Draft a new safety communication -- create a new mailing from the Mailing list, write a clear subject line, compose the body with the relevant safety information, attach any supporting documents, and preview before proceeding.
- Attach a briefing document to an upcoming mailing -- open the draft mailing, go to the attachments section, and add the file. Verify the correct file was attached by checking the file name.
- Update the content of a duplicated mailing -- after duplicating from the mailing list, open the editor, revise the body text to reflect current information, update the subject line if needed, and replace any outdated attachments.
Good practice
- Keep subject lines clear and specific. A well-written subject line improves open rates and helps recipients find the message later.
- Use formatting sparingly and purposefully. Bold text loses its emphasis if everything is bold.
- Only attach files that add real value to the communication. Unnecessary attachments reduce the likelihood that recipients will engage with the important ones.
- Preview the message before sending. What looks right in the editor may render differently in an email client.
- Take advantage of auto-save, but do not rely on it as a substitute for intentionally saving your work by progressing through the mailing workflow.
- When attaching forms or documents, confirm you are attaching the latest version. An outdated attachment can cause significant confusion.