Experimental Aircraft Accident Investigation Workshop by Tonex
Experimental Aircraft Accident Investigation Workshop: Plan structured inquiries for experimental platforms, respecting unique design and operating contexts. Manage evidence custody and technical collaboration. The workshop includes cybersecurity for digital records and control histories, detecting alteration or misuse. Investigators integrate cybersecurity into findings where relevant.
The Experimental Aircraft Accident Investigation Workshop provides participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to conduct thorough investigations into accidents involving experimental aircraft. This course covers the fundamentals of accident investigation techniques specific to experimental aircraft, including identifying causes, collecting evidence, and reporting findings.
Cybersecurity now shapes accident work in experimental aviation: digital avionics, flight-control firmware, and builder-installed software can be exploited—or altered after the fact. Investigations must secure and verify EFIS/FDR/SD card, autopilot, ECU, and ground-tool logs to detect tampering and preserve chain of custody. Evaluating cyber-physical failure modes (malicious firmware, spoofed GPS/ADS-B, compromised maintenance laptops) prevents misattribution and strengthens safety recommendations.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the unique challenges and considerations of investigating accidents involving experimental aircraft.
- Learn the fundamentals of accident investigation methodologies applicable to experimental aircraft incidents.
- Gain practical skills in evidence collection, analysis, and documentation.
- Develop proficiency in identifying causal factors contributing to experimental aircraft accidents.
- Acquire knowledge of regulatory frameworks and reporting requirements relevant to experimental aircraft accident investigations.
- Enhance communication and teamwork abilities crucial for effective collaboration during investigations.
Audience: This workshop is designed for aviation professionals, including investigators, safety officers, engineers, and regulators, involved in the investigation and analysis of accidents involving experimental aircraft. It is also beneficial for pilots, mechanics, and individuals interested in understanding the intricacies of accident investigation in the experimental aviation sector.
Course Outlines:
Module 1: Introduction to Experimental Aircraft Accident Investigation
- Overview of Experimental Aircraft Types
- Categories of Experimental Aircraft
- Introduction to Accident Investigation Principles
- Regulatory Framework Overview
- Historical Perspective
- Challenges in Investigating Experimental Aircraft Accidents
Module 2: Fundamentals of Accident Investigation Methodologies
- Accident Causation Theories
- Human Factors Considerations
- Evidence Collection Techniques
- Preservation Methods for Testimonial Evidence
- Basics of Physical Evidence Collection
- Application of Scientific Method in Investigation
Module 3: Evidence Collection and Analysis
- Physical Evidence Collection Techniques
- Testimonial Evidence Gathering
- Documentation Procedures
- Chain of Custody Maintenance
- Evidence Preservation Methods
- Analysis of Witness Statements
Module 4: Identifying Causal Factors
- Environmental Factors
- Mechanical Failure Analysis
- Pilot Error Assessment
- Operational Factors
- Maintenance Considerations
- Role of Regulatory Compliance
Module 5: Regulatory Compliance and Reporting
- Regulatory Reporting Requirements
- Documentation Standards
- Regulatory Compliance Procedures
- Reporting Timelines
- Responsibilities of Investigative Authorities
- Coordination with Regulatory Agencies
Module 6: Communication and Collaboration in Accident Investigations
- Effective Communication Strategies
- Interagency Collaboration
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Role of Media and Public Relations
- Reporting and Presenting Findings
- Continuous Improvement and Lessons Learned Integration