Accident and Incident Investigation Flashcards

An aircraft experiences an in-flight failure of a single engine on a multi-engine aircraft. The pilot performs a precautionary shutdown and lands safely at the nearest suitable airport. There are no injuries and the only damage is internal to the failed engine. According to NTSB Part 830, what is the operator's immediate responsibility?

Answer: Immediate notification to the NTSB is required.

NTSB Part 830.5 lists specific serious incidents that require immediate notification, even if they do not meet the definition of an accident. For a large multiengine aircraft (over 12,500 lbs), the 'sustained loss of the power or thrust produced by two or more engines' is reportable. However, for all aircraft, an 'in-flight fire' or 'flight control system malfunction or failure' are also on the list. While a single engine failure itself on a multi-engine plane isn't explicitly listed as a standalone notifiable incident unless other criteria are met (like a fire or component failure), it is a serious event that warrants review against the list. Crucially, damage limited to a single engine is explicitly excluded from the definition of 'substantial damage', so this is not an 'accident', but it is a reportable 'incident'. The most accurate answer reflects that specific incidents, regardless of damage classification, require immediate notification.

During a formal NTSB investigation of a major aviation accident, what is the primary role of the FAA Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) participating as a member of the Go-Team?

Answer: To serve as a technical advisor to the NTSB and determine if regulatory non-compliance was a factor.

The NTSB is the independent agency responsible for investigating accidents and determining the probable cause. The FAA is legally designated as a party to the investigation. The role of FAA personnel, such as ASIs, is to provide technical expertise in areas like aircraft operations, maintenance, or air traffic control, and to help determine if any Federal Aviation Regulations were violated, which can inform both the NTSB's investigation and the FAA's subsequent corrective actions.

According to the definitions in NTSB Part 830, which of the following scenarios constitutes an 'aircraft accident' that requires immediate notification?

Answer: A hard landing that results in a passenger suffering a fractured ankle and the aircraft's landing gear sustaining damage requiring major repair.

NTSB Part 830.2 defines an 'aircraft accident' as an occurrence where any person suffers a serious injury OR the aircraft receives substantial damage. A fractured bone (except simple fractures of fingers, toes, or nose) is defined as a 'serious injury'. Damage that 'adversely affects the structural strength, performance, or flight characteristics' and requires major repair is defined as 'substantial damage'. This scenario meets both criteria. The other options describe incidents that may require notification but do not meet the specific definition of an accident.

An ASI is the first federal official on the scene of a general aviation accident in a remote field. According to NTSB Part 830, what is the most critical initial responsibility regarding the aircraft wreckage?

Answer: To ensure the wreckage and associated records are preserved and protected from disturbance or further damage.

NTSB Part 830.10 states that the operator is responsible for preserving wreckage, cargo, mail, and records. However, an FAA official on-site would enforce this and take necessary actions to protect the scene until the NTSB takes official custody. Disturbing the wreckage is prohibited except to remove persons, protect the wreckage from further damage, or protect the public from injury. The ASI's primary role is to ensure the integrity of the evidence for the NTSB's investigation.

The operator of an aircraft that was involved in an occurrence defined as an 'accident' under NTSB Part 830 must file a formal report. What is the deadline for filing this report?

Answer: Within 10 days after the accident.

NTSB Part 830.15 specifies the reporting requirements. While immediate notification of an accident is required, the operator must file a formal written report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) within 10 days after the accident. The 7-day requirement applies to missing aircraft, and reports for 'incidents' are only required upon request.

Which of the following events is specifically listed in NTSB Part 830.5 as a serious incident requiring immediate notification to the NTSB, even if it does not result in substantial damage or serious injury?

Answer: A flight control system malfunction or failure.

NTSB Part 830.5 provides a specific list of serious incidents that must be reported immediately, regardless of whether they escalate to a full-blown accident. 'Flight control system malfunction or failure' is explicitly on this list. The other options are not listed as mandatory immediate notification events unless they lead to an accident or another listed incident (like an in-flight fire).