After the On-Scene Investigation

Even after the team has left the accident scene, the fact-gathering phase of the investigation continues. During this phase, a public hearing may be held by the Board. Factual reports will then be issued, which become the basis for the analysis to come.

The final report of accident investigations, containing the Board's decision as to the probable cause and the reasons for the Board's conclusions, is adopted by the five-Member Safety Board in a public meeting held in Washington. Safety recommendations may be issued at any time during an investigation, or accompany the final report.