May aircraft wreckage be moved prior to the NTSB taking custody?

• A. Yes, but only to protect the wreckage from further damage
• B. No, it must remain in place until custody is taken
• C. Yes, at the operator's discretion
• D. Only with the authorization of the NTSB

Answer: (A)

When a crash scene is being handled, preserving evidence and protecting lives are both priorities. Wreckage should generally be left in place for the investigation, but if there’s an immediate risk of further damage or danger, responders may move the wreckage to prevent that damage. The key is that the movement is limited to protecting the wreckage from additional harm and does not serve as a way to alter the scene or skirt the investigation. After any such protective movement, the NTSB should be notified and custody established as soon as feasible.

So the best choice reflects this balance: moving is allowed prior to NTSB custody only to protect the wreckage from further damage. It isn’t an open-right for operators to relocate for any reason, nor does it require waiting for NTSB authorization for protective action.