Is This Even Reportable?

If what just happened meets certain NTSB definitions, theyll want immediate notification. And even if your event wasnt an accident, they still may request you submit a report by completing NTSB Form 6120.1, Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report. Its always a good idea to consult with counsel before filing any such form, and you have up to 10 days. But theres a good chance what happened doesnt require notification. How can you tell? The NTSB rules do a pretty good job of laying it out.

Key Takeaways:

• The NTSB requires immediate notification and may request a report (Form 6120.1) for events meeting specific definitions of "accident" or "serious incident," advising consultation with legal counsel before submission.
• "Substantial damage" has specific exclusions, such as minor airframe dents or single-engine damage, while "serious injury" involves hospitalization exceeding 48 hours within seven days.
• "Serious incidents" requiring notification include flight control malfunctions, crew incapacitation, uncontained engine failures, in-flight fires, major blade damage, mid-air collisions, property damage over $25,000, and significant glass panel information loss.
• For large multi-engine aircraft, additional triggers for notification include sustained electrical or hydraulic system failure affecting flight controls, sustained power loss of two or more engines, or the use of an emergency egress system.

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