Knowing When to Call the NTSB

When things go wrong, it may seem like high drama, but there are rules for notification of aircraft incidents and accidents.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, May 07, 2024 at 10:53 AM ET

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The Federal Aviation Regulations Aeronautical Information Manual outlines rules for notification of aircraft incidents and accidents. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Minor off-runway excursions without injury or substantial aircraft damage are typically "incidents" and do not require NTSB notification under FAR/AIM Part 830.
NTSB notification is required for "accidents" involving fatalities, serious injuries, substantial aircraft damage, or property damage (excluding the aircraft) exceeding $25,000.
Pilots involved in reportable accidents or incidents are responsible for preserving wreckage to the extent possible, treating the site like a crime scene.
While pilots may not always need to notify the FAA for incidents involving only aircraft damage, air traffic controllers can report events, potentially leading to FAA or law enforcement inquiries.

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The private pilot candidate landed long. The airplane rolled to a stop off the end of the pavement, about 10 feet into the grass.

There was no damage or injuries, except for frayed nerves, but as a precaution the school’s chief mechanic took a look at the Cessna 150. Mostly it was done to show the learner that part of being a pilot was being responsible. If you have an unintentional off-runway experience, you have a mechanic inspect the airplane as a precaution. The CFI didn’t think there was any damage as there hadn’t been a prop strike. The chief mechanic confirmed this.