The Accident Report and the Injured Passenger
You are pilot-in-command of a light aircraft. During landing, the aircraft veers off the runway and strikes a runway light, damaging the propeller and a wingtip. Your passenger suffers a cut to the forehead requiring hospital treatment (stitches, no overnight stay). The aircraft is substantially damaged. You have notified the emergency services and the aerodrome operator. You hold a PPL(A). The occurrence happened at 14:20 local on a Saturday.
1. What reporting obligations arise, and to whom?
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Accident vs incident: This is likely an accident because a person suffered injury requiring hospital treatment and the aircraft sustained substantial damage. Under the applicable rules, an accident must be reported to the appropriate authority (e.g. the national accident investigation body) as soon as possible.
Reports:
- Accident report to the accident investigation authority - immediate notification, followed by a written report within the prescribed period (commonly 10 days, or 2 days for serious incidents).
- Occurrence report to the civil aviation authority - the pilot must report the occurrence.
- Aerodrome operator - already notified, but confirm in writing.
- Insurance/owner - internal notification.
Timing: Immediate notification by the quickest means, then written reports within the required timeframes. Do not wait for the investigation to conclude.
Preservation: Preserve the wreckage, do not move it unless necessary for safety, and do not disturb evidence.
2. What should you do with the aircraft and the evidence, and what are your personal obligations?
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Aircraft/evidence:
- Do not move the aircraft unless it is necessary to prevent further danger or to free a person.
- Preserve the scene: photograph the runway, the damage, and the position of the aircraft.
- Do not alter or repair the aircraft before the investigation authority has had the opportunity to inspect it, unless authorised.
- Secure the aircraft and the aerodrome.
Personal obligations:
- Report the accident immediately to the investigation authority and the CAA.
- Provide a written report within the required timeframe.
- Cooperate with the investigation.
- Do not discuss the occurrence publicly in a way that could prejudice the investigation.
- Ensure the passenger's injury is documented and that you have their details for the report.
Licence: Your licence may be subject to review, but you must not conceal the occurrence. Honesty and full cooperation are required.