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.

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, July 21, 2015 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Tom Carr has worked at Garmin for 17 years. Garmin Aviation

Key Takeaways:

The NTSB requires notification or a report (Form 6120.1, with counsel consultation) for events classified as "accidents" or "serious incidents."
"Accidents" are defined by "substantial damage" (which excludes minor damage like bent fairings or single engine failure) or "serious injury" (requiring hospitalization over 48 hours within 7 days).
"Serious incidents" requiring notification include flight control/uncontained engine failure, crew incapacitation, in-flight fire, mid-air collision, significant glass panel loss, or property damage exceeding $25,000.
For large multi-engine aircraft, additional "serious incidents" include sustained electrical/hydraulic flight control failure, multi-engine power loss, or emergency egress system use.

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If what just happened meets certain NTSB definitions, they’ll want immediate notification. And even if your event wasn’t an accident, they still may request you submit a report by completing NTSB Form 6120.1, Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report. It’s always a good idea to consult with counsel before filing any such form, and you have up to 10 days. But there’s a good chance what happened doesn’t require notification. How can you tell? The NTSB rules do a pretty good job of laying it out.