NTSB modernization efforts lead to streamlined aviation Form 6120 submission process
WASHINGTON (March 31, 2025) — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Wednesday introduced a secure online portal for pilots and operators to submit data in support of aviation accidents and incidents investigated by the NTSB. 
Previously, pilots and operators were required to download a lengthy, fillable PDF and email that form back to the agency.
Pilots and operators can now submit NTSB Form 6120.1 on a phone or computer directly on the NTSB website, providing a user-friendly option that ends the need for investigators to manually input the information.
Federal regulations have long required the pilot-in-command or operator of an aircraft with an FAA-issued registration number to report an accident to the NTSB “immediately, and by the most expeditious means available.” After an initial report is made by calling the NTSB’s 24-hour Response Operations Center at 844-373-9922, an investigator will determine whether the NTSB will investigate. In those cases when an investigation is opened, the pilot and/or operator will complete NTSB Form 6120.1. On average, the NTSB receives nearly 1,000 of these reports each year.
The new digital form was designed to be both convenient and secure, allowing pilots and operators to save changes before submitting the form and to check on the status of their submission directly on the NTSB website.
More information and resources related to the new online NTSB Form 6120.1 are available on NTSB.gov at Report an Accident to the NTSB.
To report an incident/accident or if you are a public safety agency, please call 1-844-373-9922 or 202-314-6290 to speak to a Watch Officer at the NTSB Response Operations Center (ROC) in Washington, DC (24/7).
