An incident involving a malfunction in the flight control system requires what kind of notification?

In the context of a malfunction involving the flight control system, immediate notification to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) field office is essential for several reasons. The NTSB is responsible for investigating transportation incidents to determine their causes and improve safety measures. A malfunction in the flight control system poses a significant risk to flight safety, and timely reporting allows for a thorough investigation to address potential systemic issues or hazards within the aviation industry.

Immediate notification ensures that qualified investigators can assess the situation, gather evidence, and identify contributing factors swiftly. This prompt action is crucial in preventing further incidents and enhancing overall aviation safety. Other forms of notification, such as reporting to the FAA or waiting until damages exceed a certain threshold, do not ensure that immediate safety concerns are addressed, which is why the most responsible action is to notify the NTSB immediately.