FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)RegulationsMedium
After a minor helicopter accident, the pilot is uninjured and the aircraft is resting in an open field. According to 49 CFR Part 830, what must the pilot do regarding the wreckage before the NTSB takes custody of it?
- AImmediately remove the wreckage from the field to prevent it from becoming a hazard
- BLeave the wreckage completely untouched indefinitely, even if it obstructs emergency vehicle access
- CPreserve the wreckage and aircraft records, disturbing them only as necessary to protect from further damage or to remove injured or trapped persons
- DPhotograph the wreckage and then dispose of it after 24 hours
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Preserve the wreckage and aircraft records, disturbing them only as necessary to protect from further damage or to remove injured or trapped persons
Under 49 CFR 830.10, the operator must preserve aircraft wreckage, mail, cargo, and records to the extent possible until the NTSB takes custody. Wreckage may only be disturbed to the extent necessary to remove persons injured or trapped, protect from further damage, or protect the public from injury.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Wreckage must not be moved unless necessary for the exceptions listed in 830.10.
- B. The rule allows movement for safety/rescue reasons, not absolute preservation regardless of hazard.
- D. There is no 24-hour disposal rule; wreckage must be preserved until NTSB releases it.
Wreckage Preservation (49 CFR 830.10)
After an accident, the operator must preserve aircraft wreckage and records until the NTSB takes custody, except as needed to protect people or prevent further damage.
- Applies to wreckage, mail, cargo, and records
- Exceptions: removing injured/trapped persons, protecting from further damage, protecting the public
- Violation can result in enforcement action
Memory trick: 'Freeze the scene' until NTSB says go.