NTSB - Major Investigations

MAJOR INVESTIGATIONS

When the Board is notified of a major accident, it launches a "Go Team," which varies in size depending on the severity of the accident and the complexity of the issues involved. The team may consist of experts in as many as 14 different specialties, coordinated by the investigator-in-charge. Each expert manages a group of other specialists from government agencies and industry in collecting the facts and determining the conditions and circumstances surrounding the accident. The investigative groups formed vary, depending on the nature of the accident, and may look into areas such as structures, systems, powerplants, human performance, fire and explosion, meteorology, radar data, event recorders, and witness statements, among others. After an investigation is completed, a detailed narrative report is prepared that analyzes the investigative record and identifies the probable cause of the accident. See a description of the investigative process for further details.

The NTSB now provides quick access to status summaries for major aviation investigations.

Other current information is available for investigations in all modes, under the following areas:

Publications - online access to final reports and studies
Board Meetings - schedule of reports presented for discussion at public meetings, including links to presentations, as available
Public Hearings - schedule and topics publicly presented during a major investigation
Press Releases & Advisories - timely updates on investigation status

Public Docket - description of detailed records and files maintained for investigations and all major Board activities

News & Events