What is the minimum period of hospitalization for an injury to be classified as a "serious injury" by the NTSB?

The classification of a "serious injury" by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is specifically defined in their regulations. The correct minimum period of hospitalization required for an injury to be classified as serious is 48 hours. This timeframe starts from the moment the injury occurs and continues through the hospitalization period. A serious injury is characterized by its impact on an individual's health and the necessity for substantial medical intervention or care.

This definition is critical for reporting purposes and accident investigations, as it helps in the categorization of incidents involving injuries and allows for more effective safety assessments and regulatory actions. Understanding this criterion is vital for both safety professionals and those involved in the aviation industry, ensuring that serious injuries are accurately identified and documented.