What is the role of regulatory agencies other than NTSB (e.g., FAA, EASA) in accident investigations?

• A. They may participate, provide records, support, and implement safety recommendations within their jurisdictions; NTSB leads the investigation.
• B. They replace the NTSB as lead investigator
• C. They have no involvement beyond press briefings
• D. They are solely responsible for prosecuting violations

Answer: (A)

In accident investigations, the lead is the national safety board, but other regulatory agencies participate and act on the findings. Agencies like the FAA or EASA provide records, technical expertise, and regulatory context that help interpret what happened and why. They may supply maintenance logs, flight and operations data, air traffic control records, and access to facilities or personnel. Their involvement ensures the investigation considers regulatory and industry practices and that any safety concerns are understood within the rules they enforce.

After the investigation, these regulators are responsible for implementing or enforcing safety actions within their jurisdiction. That can mean issuing airworthiness directives, safety alerts, inspections, or changes to rules and oversight programs to prevent recurrence. They do not replace the lead investigator, and they are not limited to press briefings or prosecutions. Prosecution, when applicable, is handled by appropriate authorities, not by the investigative lead.