The investigation of an aircraft accident is a task that can be almost unlimited in scope.
Therefore, some investigations will be curtailed by the resources available, unless proper management of
the investigations is exercised. The investigator-in-charge is responsible for ensuring that the expenditure of
the resources available results in an investigation that extracts the maximum benefit to the safety of aviation.
The investigator-in-charge must have the experience to direct the investigation in a manner that ensures
resources are used to the maximum effect and not squandered on irrelevant lines of inquiry. At the same
time, the investigator-in-charge must also ensure, as much as is practicable, that relevant lines of inquiry are
terminated as soon as they have achieved the level beyond which further expenditure of resources will be
uneconomical in terms of enhancing safety.
As an investigator gains experience, he will realize that the need to increase his knowledge and I upgrade his skills is a continuing process. While training is essential, the optimization of an investigator’s
capabilities generally depends upon a personal commitment to excellence.
During the Accident Investigation and Prevention’(A1G) Divisional Meeting in September 1999,
several States expressed the view that there was a need to develop common standards for the training of
investigators. The training standards were to be compiled in such a way that they would be adaptable to a
variety of cultures and operational requirements. Based on the discussion, the meeting in its
Recommendation 7/2, agreed that ICAO would develop guidelines for the training of investigators.
In response to the Recommendation, ICAO developed the training guidelines contained in this
circular. The circular discusses the experience and employment background required for training as an
aircraft accident investigator. It also outlines the progressive training that is considered necessary to qualify a person for the various investigation roles, including appointment as the investigator-in-charge of an
investigation into a major accident involving a large transport category aircraft. ICAO acknowledges that
training guidelines are evolutionary in nature and may need to be updated periodically.
Throughout this circular, with the exception of the definitions in Chapter 1, the use of the male
gender should be understood to include male and female persons and the term “accident” should be
understood to include “incident”.
ICAO is grateful for the considerable assistance provided by the International Society of Air Safety Investigators in the preparation of this circular.