📘NTSB §830.10 – Preservation of Wreckage, Mail, Cargo, and Records

🚩 Overview

Preserving evidence after an aviation accident or serious incident is critical for the NTSB to conduct accurate investigations. NTSB regulations detail explicit requirements for wreckage preservation.

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✅ Key Preservation Requirements

Following an aviation accident or incident requiring NTSB notification, operators or pilots must:

🛩️ 1. Preserve Aircraft Wreckage

• Preserve wreckage, mail, cargo, and all onboard materials exactly as they were at the time of the accident or incident.

📄 2. Preserve Aircraft Records

• Maintain all records, logs, flight plans, weight and balance documents, and any other relevant operational paperwork related to the flight.

🚫 3. Restriction on Movement

• Do not move or disturb wreckage or evidence except to:

  • Protect people from injury.

  • Remove trapped or injured individuals.

  • Protect wreckage from further damage.

  • Prevent hazards to public safety.

📞 4. Obtaining Permission for Removal

• Obtain explicit permission from the NTSB before moving wreckage or aircraft components not covered by safety exemptions above.

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🛩️ Example Scenario

Following a runway excursion resulting in substantial damage, ensure all wreckage and onboard materials remain untouched unless needed to aid injured passengers or mitigate immediate hazards. Notify the NTSB promptly, and await their authorization before moving any wreckage or critical evidence.

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📌 CFI Pro Tips

• Teach Preservation Importance: Emphasize the importance of preserving evidence after an accident to facilitate accurate investigations and improve future safety.

• Compliance Training: Clearly train students on their responsibilities regarding wreckage preservation, including permissible exceptions and procedures for obtaining NTSB authorization.

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📚 Further Reading and Official References

• NTSB §830.10 (Full Regulation): https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-VIII/part-830/section-830.10

• NTSB Accident Investigation Procedures: https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/process/Pages/default.aspx

• FAA Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge – Accident Procedures: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak