What is the appropriate action if both engines of a light twin aircraft sustain damage during a landing mishap?

In the context of aviation safety regulations, immediate notification to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is a critical step following an accident or incident involving an aircraft. When both engines of a light twin aircraft are damaged during a landing mishap, the situation typically constitutes a significant event that warrants investigation.

The NTSB is responsible for investigating accidents and incidents in the aviation sector, and one of their roles is to gather data to improve safety standards. Prompt notification allows them to commence their investigation in a timely manner, which is essential for understanding the cause of the failure and preventing future occurrences. The regulations set forth by the NTSB clearly indicate that any accident involving substantial damage to the aircraft must be reported, regardless of the immediate assessment of the damage or the status of emergency procedures.

By choosing to notify the NTSB immediately, the responsible party ensures compliance with federal regulations and contributes to the overarching goal of maintaining safety within the aviation system. Other options suggest delaying notification or only notifying under certain circumstances, which could impede the investigation and delay critical safety insights that could be gleaned from the incident.