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Question: What is the difference between and Aircraft Accident and an Aircraft Incident? Answer: An aircraft accident is defined as an occurrence in which any person suffers death or serious injury or in which the aircraft suffers substantial damage. An incident is defined as any occurrence other than an accident, associated with the operation of an aircraft, which affects or could affect the safety of operations. Reportable incidents are further enumerated in the NTSB’s accident reporting regulations and include in-flight fire, flight control system failure and damage in excess of $25,000.
Question: When must you report an Accident or Incident?
Answer: The aircraft operator is required to immediately notify the nearest NTSB field office of any aircraft accident or reportable incident. The NTSB has nine field offices located throughout the United States and their telephone numbers can generally be found in local telephone books, on-line or contacting local law enforcement agencies.
Question: What else must be filed with an Accident or Incident?
Answer: The pilot is also required to file a written report within 10 days of the accident/incident. The format for the report, including the information required to be furnished, will be provided by the NTSB.
Question: Who has the responsibility for investigation of Accidents or Incidents?
Answer: The National Transportation Safety Board has the responsibility to investigate aircraft accidents and certain aircraft related incidents. Because the NTSB has a limited staff, they will sometimes “delegate” their accident investigation responsibility to the FAA, particularly where there has not been a loss of life.
Question: What about possible certificate actions by the FAA with Accidents or Incidents?
Answer: In addition to investigative responsibilities, the FAA has a concurrent responsibility to determine whether there has been any violation of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR’s). Generally at least one FAA Aviation Safety Inspector will accompany the NTSB investigator during an on-site accident investigation.
Question: What should a pilot say to the FAA about the Accident or Incident?
Answer: The pilot who reports an aircraft accident or incident should be aware that any statements made to, or in the presence of, an FAA inspector during an accident investigation may ultimately be used by the FAA in a subsequent enforcement proceeding, including one involving civil penalty or certificate action. A pilot who reports an accident/incident should be honest and candid in providing the required information, but should avoid making any statement regarding guilt or non-compliance with the regulations. If there is any question about the information required to be provided to the NTSB or the FAA, the operator might wish to consult with counsel before providing the information.
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 Certificate Until You Call Us!  C. Edward Adams  John Callahan |
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