If an aircraft is involved in an accident which results in substantial damage to the aircraft, the nearest NTSB field office should be notified

• A. Immediately
• B. Within 24 hours
• C. Within 5 days
• D. Only if requested

Answer: (A)

Notified immediately to the NTSB after an accident that results in substantial damage is required because rapid notification helps trigger a prompt investigation, preserve evidence at the scene, and collect accurate information while memories are fresh. The nearest NTSB field office is the proper contact point because investigators coordinate with local authorities and the operator to start the formal report process without delay. Substantial damage means damage that would normally require major repair or replacement or would prevent the aircraft from safely returning to service, which is the threshold that triggers regulatory notification. Delaying the notification—such as waiting 24 hours or several days—would miss the critical early information and would not comply with the procedure. The notification should be provided by the quickest feasible means, not only if someone explicitly requests it.