How do I Find Out About What Happened in an Airplane/Helicopter Crash?

In the United States, primary responsibility for investigation of crashes is vested in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). This agency frequently utilizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to assist it in the investigation. Additionally, the NTSB will invite all parties of which it is aware that might be responsible for the crash (the aircraft operator, the airframe manufacturer, the engine manufacturer and component manufacturers) to participate in the investigation. All of the factual information obtained by these agencies and private entities is (in the opinion of the NTSB) confidential during the process of the investigation. Obviously there is an inherent conflict of interest here inasmuch as the FAA works closely with most of the entities who may be responsible for the crash. During certain phases of the investigation, the NTSB will release public information through its website here. These reports are released as “preliminary report”, “factual report” and “probable cause” report.

Experienced aviation attorneys agree that much of the information contained in these reports is inaccurate and incomplete. Frequently, the reports are influenced by experts hired by the parties who may be responsible for the crash. Often, private investigations of these matters reveal facts that are completely inconsistent with these reports so it is routine for attorneys representing victims of aviation accidents to conduct a private investigation independent of these agency investigations.