FAA regulations for accident and incident reporting procedures pistons

Staying Compliant: FAA Regulations for Piston Aircraft Accident & Incident Reporting

For every pilot and aircraft owner, safety is paramount. Understanding the regulatory landscape governing aviation, especially concerning accidents and incidents, is not just good practice—it’s a legal imperative. For owners and operators of single-engine and twin-piston aircraft, knowing the precise procedures for reporting aviation mishaps is crucial for compliance and for contributing to overall aviation safety. While the FAA provides guidance and procedures for investigations, the core reporting responsibility lies with the operator to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

NAVIGATING THE REGULATIONS: NTSB PART 830

The primary regulation governing aircraft accident and incident reporting is 49 CFR Part 830, “Notification and Reporting of Aircraft Accidents or Incidents and Overdue Aircraft, and Preservation of Aircraft Wreckage, Mail, Cargo, and Records.” This part clearly defines what constitutes an “accident” and a reportable “incident,” outlines immediate notification requirements, and details follow-up reporting procedures. It’s vital to note that while the FAA plays a significant role in accident investigation, the initial notification and formal reporting are directed to the NTSB.

WHAT CONSTITUTES AN ACCIDENT OR REPORTABLE INCIDENT?

The NTSB defines an “aircraft accident” as an occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft which takes place between the time any person boards the aircraft with the intention of flight and all such persons have disembarked, and in which any person suffers death or serious injury, or in which the aircraft receives substantial damage. Understanding “serious injury” and “substantial damage” is key:

  • Serious Injury: An injury that requires hospitalization for more than 48 hours, commencing within 7 days from the date of the injury; results in a fracture of any bone (except simple fractures of fingers, toes, or nose); causes severe hemorrhages, nerve, muscle, or tendon damage; involves any internal organ; or involves second- or third-degree burns, or any burns affecting more than 51 percent of the body surface.
  • Substantial Damage: Damage or failure which adversely affects the structural strength, performance, or flight characteristics of the aircraft, and which would normally require major repair or replacement of the affected comp2onent. Importantly, certain types of damage are not considered “substantial,” such as engine failure or damage limited to an engine if only one engine fails or is damaged, bent fairings or cowling, dented skin, small punctured holes in the skin or fabric, ground damage to rotor or propeller blades, and damage to landing gear, wheels, tires, flaps, engine accessories, brakes, or wingtips.3

Beyond accidents, specific “incidents” also require immediate notification to the NTSB. For piston aircraft, these generally include:

  • Flight control system malfunction or failure.4
  • Inability of any required flight crewmember to perform normal flight duties as a result of injury or illness.5
  • In-flight fire.6
  • Aircraft collision in flight.7
  • Damage to property, other than the aircraft, estimated to exceed $25,000 for repair (including materials8 and labor) or fair market value in the event of total loss, whichever is less.

It is crucial for aircraft operators and pilots to familiarize themselves with the precise definitions outlined in 49 CFR Part 830 to determine whether an event requires reporting. When in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and notify the NTSB.

IMMEDIATE NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES

When an accident or reportable incident occurs, the operator of the aircraft has the immediate responsibility to notify the nearest NTSB Field Office by the most expeditious means available. This initial notification should include, if available, the following information:

  • Type, nationality, and registration marks of the aircraft.
  • Name of owner and operator of the aircraft.
  • Name of the pilot-in-command.
  • Date and time of the accident or incident.
  • Last point of departure and point of intended landing.
  • Position of the aircraft with reference to some easily defined geographical point.9
  • Number of persons aboard, number killed, and number seriously injured.10
  • Nature of the accident or incident, the weather, and the extent of damage to the aircraft so far as is k11nown.
  • A description of any explosives, radioactive materials, or other dangerous articles carried.

The NTSB advises that acceptable forms of notification include direct telephone calls, telegraphic notification, or notification to the FAA, who will then contact the NTSB.

FOLLOW-UP REPORTS AND WRECKAGE PRESERVATION

Beyond the immediate notification, the operator must file a written report on NTSB Form 6120.1 or 6120.2. This report is required within 10 days after an accident or after 7 days if an overdue aircraft is still missing. For incidents that required immediate notification, a written report is only required if requested by an authorized representative of the NTSB. Each crewmember, if physically able, must attach a statement setting forth the facts and circumstances relating to the event.

A critical aspect of accident and incident response is the preservation of aircraft wreckage, mail, cargo, and records. The operator is responsible for preserving the wreckage until the NTSB or its authorized representative takes custody. The wreckage may only be disturbed to remove injured or trapped persons, to protect the wreckage from further damage, or to protect the public from injury. This preservation is vital for the NTSB’s investigation into the cause of the mishap.

THE AERO CENTER: YOUR PARTNER IN SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

At The Aero Center, we understand the complexities of FAA and NTSB regulations. Our team of highly skilled and FAA-certified mechanics is deeply committed to ensuring the airworthiness of your single-engine or twin-piston aircraft. We pride ourselves on our meticulous maintenance practices, which are designed to prevent incidents and keep your aircraft flying safely and reliably. Many aircraft owners and pilots in California, Arizona, and Nevada trust our expertise, knowing that their aircraft are in the hands of professionals who prioritize safety and compliance.

We uphold the highest standards, ensuring every inspection, repair, and modification adheres to FAA guidelines. This commitment to excellence provides our clients with peace of mind and builds a strong foundation of consistency in their aircraft’s maintenance history. We believe that a well-maintained aircraft is the best defense against unexpected issues.

As the only 24/7 maintenance center in the area, The Aero Center is uniquely positioned to minimize your airplane’s downtime. We know that every hour your aircraft is on the ground for unexpected maintenance is an hour lost. Our round-the-clock availability means that in the event of an unforeseen issue, or simply for routine maintenance that fits your busy schedule, we are here to get you back in the air as quickly and safely as possible. Our unwavering dedication to rapid response and efficient service is a testament to our commitment to the general aviation community across California, Arizona, and Nevada.

Remember, understanding and adhering to FAA and NTSB reporting procedures for piston aircraft is not just a regulatory obligation; it’s a crucial step in ensuring the safety of yourself, your passengers, and the broader aviation community.

FOOTNOTES
  1. National Transportation Safety Board. (n.d.). 49 CFR Part 830 – Notification and Reporting of Aircraft Accidents or Incidents and Overdue Aircraft, and Preservation of Aircraft Wreckage, Mail, Cargo, and Records. Retrieved from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-VIII/part-830
  2. Federal Aviation Administration. (n.d.). Safety, Accident, and Hazard Reports – Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM). Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap7_section_7.html
  3. EAA. (n.d.). Aircraft Accident and Incident Reporting. Retrieved from https://www.eaa.org/eaa/aircraft-building/builderresources/next-steps-after-your-airplane-is-built/operating-articles/incidents-accidents-emergencies/aircraft-accident-and-incident-reporting
  4. NTSB. (n.d.). Report an Aircraft Accident to the NTSB. Retrieved from https://www.ntsb.gov/Pages/aviationreport.aspx

The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.

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