When must a written report about an accident be submitted to the NTSB?

A written report about an aviation accident must be submitted to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) within 10 days. This requirement is established to ensure timely investigation and analysis of aviation incidents, which is crucial for enhancing safety and preventing future accidents. The 10-day period allows for the necessary information to be collected and organized into a comprehensive report, which can then be used by the NTSB to assess the circumstances of the accident and implement any necessary changes to regulations or procedures.

The requirement for submitting a report within this timeframe helps the NTSB gather evidence while it is still fresh, and it facilitates prompt action on any discovered issues. Furthermore, this timeline is designed to balance the need for thoroughness in reporting with the urgency of addressing potential safety concerns in aviation operations.

The alternatives, such as 24 hours, 30 days, or "as soon as possible," do not align with the established regulations governing accident reporting timelines. While timely reporting is critical, the specific 10-day requirement ensures that the report is both expedited and thorough, providing the NTSB with the necessary information to fulfill its mission of improving aviation safety.