Once all the data and evidence has been evaluated and examined the AIB report can be written. The AIB report should contain factual information, including documentary and testimonial evidence as well as photographs. This report should not include recommendations. (AFI 51-503)Now that we have briefly discussed the way AIB conducts an accident investigation lets see how the SIB conduct their investigations.Once a SIB president has been appointed and a membership assigned. The board members can then move into the scene and begin to search for clues and evidence. Once in the scene investigators can start by searching any electronically stored data such as flight data recorders (FDR), cockpit voice recorders (CVR), nonvolatile memory chips on circuit cards from engine controls, programmable navigation equipment, and other avionics equipment. Once found they should be sent to the Mishap Analysis and Animation Facility or MAAF at AFSC. MAAF is the central Air Force activity for recovery, transcriptions, and analysis of FDR data in support of Air Force safety investigations. Any data processed based upon privileged safety information or involving board deliberation renders the processed data non-releasable.Next key evidence that should be collected is witness accounts. Usually physical and documented evidence is considered more credible. However, witness accounts are often time excellent leads. A witness can be anyone involved in the mishap, anyone who saw the accident and those who possess the training and qualifications that make them experts in the subject. A witness can make privileged or non-privileged statements; it is up to the investigator or SIB president to determine if and when to extend a promise of confidentiality. A promise of confidentiality is based upon the category of the mishap and the need for protection of the witness statement.Human factors evidence is also important to a safety investigation. This type of evidenc...
