How many days does an aircraft operator have to file a report to the NTSB after an accident?

An aircraft operator is required to file a report to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) within 10 days following an accident. This adherence to the 10-day requirement is established by federal regulations, which ensure that timely information is submitted for thorough investigation and analysis. The NTSB uses this information to improve aviation safety and prevent future incidents. Prompt reporting is crucial because it allows for immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, enabling the determination of both contributing factors and necessary safety improvements.

The other timeframes do not align with the regulatory requirements around aircraft accident notification. For instance, a requirement of 5 days may be too brief, compromising the thoroughness required for reporting. A longer timeframe such as 15 or 30 days could be insufficient for immediate action and could delay critical safety interventions that might prevent additional accidents. Thus, 10 days strikes an appropriate balance between urgency and the opportunity for comprehensive reporting.