What is required of an aircraft operator after an incident?

The requirement for an aircraft operator after an incident primarily centers around reporting protocols set by regulatory authorities. In situations where an incident occurs, it is not sufficient to only submit a report if requested. Instead, regulations typically dictate a more proactive approach regarding notification and reporting.

The correct approach emphasizes that the operator must notify the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) immediately after certain incidents, including accidents or events that meet specific criteria laid out by aviation regulations. This immediate notification helps ensure that investigations can proceed without delay and that safety implications are addressed swiftly.

Moreover, there are established timelines for submitting formal reports, often necessitating that operators file within specific timeframes after the incident, particularly if injuries or significant damage occurred. Immediate reporting helps to maintain safety standards and facilitates transparency within the aviation system.

Therefore, the proper action after an incident involves timely and proactive notification to relevant authorities, which supersedes the notion that reports should only be submitted upon request.