Chapter 1. Policies Procedures and Administration

1.1. Purpose. The purpose of this directive is to implement federal law which assigns NTSB and FAA

1.1.2. This directive strives to foster cooperation during the investigations of aircraft mishaps involv-

ing both civil and military aircraft, while adhering to the unique requirements of civil and military

investigations.

1.1.3. Since the common goal of safety investigations is mishap prevention, cooperation between mil-

itary and civil agencies is both logical and desirable.

1.2. Responsibility. The Air Force Chief of Safety (HQ USAF/SE) is the executive agent for this

interservice publication. Each participant uses component-unique publications to implement this instruc-

tion. If a participant alters these policies or procedures because of unique operating procedures, it indi-

cates applicability to that service or agency only.

1.2.1. Changes to this publication should be sent to HQ Air Force Safety Center (AFSC)/Plans and

Programs Division (SEP), 9700 G Avenue SE, Kirtland AFB NM 87117-5670.

1.3. Types of Investigations. An aircraft mishap can precipitate multiple investigations for alternate pur-

poses and under separate authorities.

1.3.1. Mishaps are investigated for two primary reasons; 1) to determine the cause (s) of the mishap

to prevent the recurrence of like mishaps, and 2) to satisfy legal or administrative concerns.

1.3.1.1. A safety investigation promotes aviation safety by identifying mishap circumstances (i.e.,

hazards) which, if eliminated or reduced, could prevent the recurrence of the mishap. A safety

investigation recommends corrective actions to reduce or eliminate hazards.

1.3.1.2. Other investigations may be conducted by military authorities and others for a variety of

purposes, such as providing a basis for administrative or judicial proceeding, claims or entitle-

ments. An administrative investigation may conclude culpability and may recommend punitive

action.

1.3.2. Depending on the circumstances of the mishap, jurisdictions of both civil and military authori-

ties may apply simultaneously.

1.3.2.1. The military derives its authority to investigate mishaps from the statutory and inherent

authority of the respective service secretary. Procedures for mishap reporting and investigation,

and policies on the release of information are contained in respective service implementing direc-

tives listed in Attachment 1.

1.3.2.2. Title 49, U.S.C. Chapter 11 assigns the NTSB the responsibility to investigate civil air-

craft mishaps within the United States, its territories and possessions, including those involving

both a civil and military aircraft. The NTSB is a separate federal agency, independent of the