NTSB Helicopter Accident Investigation

Overview

• NTSB Legal Authorities, mission, and structure
• NTSB "party" process
• Operational and mechanical aspects of helicopter performance
• Fracture recognition
• Weather
• Air Traffic Control for Helicopters
• Survival factors
• TWA flight 800 tutorial, examination of the reconstruction of the aircraft wreckage, and a discussion on how the NTSB undertakes major accident investigations
• Media Relations
• On Site Safety Issues
• Structures
• Helicopter manufacturer product familiarization and case studies
• Helicopter wreckage examination and investigation exercise

Performance Results

Upon completion of this course the participant will be able to:

• Understand the mission, authority, and structure of the NTSB
• Discuss NTSB investigative processes and procedures
• Understand basic helicopter structure and aerodynamics
• Define the  major aspects of helicopter investigations at an accident scene
• Distinguish the difference between structural failures that may have caused the accident and structural damage that occurred as a result of the accident
• Confidently interact with the media at the accident site and during the on-going investigation

Who May Attend

• Investigators from the NTSB and other accident investigation authorities/commissions worldwide
• Potential participants in an NTSB investigation: Investigative and safety personnel employed by airframe, engine or component manufacturers, airlines, civilian and military agencies, and related labor unions
• Members of the academic community attending for research purposes (on a space-available basis)