Notification and International Cooperation
On June 15, 2019, an accident occurred involving an ATR 42-300 airplane. The government of Brazil formally notified the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the accident. In accordance with international protocols established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), specifically Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, the NTSB, as the State of Manufacturer and Design of certain airplane components, was designated to participate in the investigation.
Appointment of U.S. Accredited Representative
The NTSB responded by appointing a U.S. Accredited Representative to assist the government of Brazil's investigation. This representative will work with Brazilian authorities to provide expertise regarding the design and manufacture of the aircraft components. The appointment is standard procedure for accidents involving aircraft designed or manufactured in the United States, even when they occur in foreign jurisdictions.
Investigation Leadership and Information Release
The investigation is led by the government of Brazil. All investigative information related to the accident will be released by the government of Brazil. The NTSB will defer to Brazilian authorities for the dissemination of findings, reports, and any determinations of probable cause.
International Framework
ICAO Annex 13 provides the framework for international cooperation in aircraft accident investigations. It designates the State of Occurrence as the lead investigator, while the State of Design and Manufacture is entitled to appoint an accredited representative to participate. This cooperation ensures that expertise from the country where the aircraft was designed is available to the investigating authority.
Conclusion
The cooperation between Brazil and the United States underscores the importance of international collaboration in aviation safety investigations. The investigation is ongoing under the leadership of Brazil, with the NTSB providing support as mandated by ICAO Annex 13.