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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Accidents, Incidents, and Pilot Responsibilities

Understanding Incidents and Accidents

Definitions

In aviation, understanding the distinction between an “incident” and an “accident” is crucial for safety and compliance with air law.

Accident

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), an “accident” is characterized by:

  • A fatal or serious injury to any person.
  • Significant damage to or structural failure of an aircraft, necessitating repairs.
  • The aircraft being missing or completely inaccessible.

In Australia, as defined by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) from January 1, 2023, an “Aircraft Accident” involves:

  • Fatal or serious injury to people.
  • Significant damage to the aircraft requiring substantial repair.

Incident

An “incident” is defined as any event, other than an accident, associated with the operation of an aircraft that affects or could affect the safety of operation. A “Serious Incident” involves conditions indicating a high probability of an accident but results in no severe outcomes.

Key Differences

  • Outcome: Accidents involve more severe outcomes such as injuries or substantial damage, whereas incidents may not but could affect safety.
  • Probability vs. Reality: Serious incidents indicate a high probability of an accident that fortunately did not occur.

Sources: ICAO Annex 13, ATSB Occurrence Category Terminology

Pilot Responsibilities for Notification

Key Legislation and Guidelines

Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003

  • Governs reporting requirements for accidents and incidents defined as “transport safety matters.”

Regulations 2003 & 2021

  • Provide explicit guidelines for classification and reporting of such occurrences.

Reporting Process

  • Mandatory Reporting: Pilots must report all accidents and incidents as defined above to appropriate authorities.
  • Safety Management System (SMS): Reporting is integral to SMS, promoting safety and preventive measures.
  • Information Protection: Emphasizes the non-punitive use of reports to enhance safety without fear of blame.

Sources: Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003, Transport Safety Investigation Regulations

Emergency Procedures from the En Route Supplement Australia (ERSA)

Emergency Signal Protocols

  1. Emergency SSR Codes:

    • 7700 for general emergencies.
    • 7600 for radio failure.

  2. Distress Communications:

    • Use MAYDAY to declare an emergency.
    • Include key information such as aircraft ID, nature of distress, position, and intentions.

  3. Urgency Messages:

    • Signal urgency with PAN PAN calls using similar information as in distress calls.

  4. Radio Failure:

    • Use 121.5 MHz or HFCS distress frequency 5696 USB.
    • Squawk 7600.

Search and Rescue (SAR) Procedures

  • Follow predefined search patterns and utilize emergency beacons effectively.
  • Alert nearby entities through international frequencies regarding emergencies.

Specific Actions

  • Pre/Post Impact: Prepare the aircraft, passengers, and resources effectively.
  • ELT Activation: Use Emergency Locator Transmitters appropriately and report accidental activations.

Sources: ERSA Emergency Procedures

This section provides essential knowledge required to correctly classify and report aircraft-related occurrences, fulfilling learning outcomes related to emergency procedures and notification responsibilities. Understanding these distinctions and procedures ensures compliance with both national and international aviation safety regulations.