[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 49, Volume 7]
[Revised as of October 1, 2006]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 49CFR830.10]

[Page 187]
 
                        TITLE 49--TRANSPORTATION
 
           CHAPTER VIII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD
 
PART 830_NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS OR INCIDENTS AND 
 
  Subpart C_Preservation of Aircraft Wreckage, Mail, Cargo, and Records
 
Sec.  830.10  Preservation of aircraft wreckage, mail, cargo, and records.


    (a) The operator of an aircraft involved in an accident or incident 
for which notification must be given is responsible for preserving to 
the extent possible any aircraft wreckage, cargo, and mail aboard the 
aircraft, and all records, including all recording mediums of flight, 
maintenance, and voice recorders, pertaining to the operation and 
maintenance of the aircraft and to the airmen until the Board takes 
custody thereof or a release is granted pursuant to Sec.  831.12(b) of 
this chapter.
    (b) Prior to the time the Board or its authorized representative 
takes custody of aircraft wreckage, mail, or cargo, such wreckage, mail, 
or cargo may not be disturbed or moved except to the extent necessary:
    (1) To remove persons injured or trapped;
    (2) To protect the wreckage from further damage; or
    (3) To protect the public from injury.
    (c) Where it is necessary to move aircraft wreckage, mail or cargo, 
sketches, descriptive notes, and photographs shall be made, if possible, 
of the original positions and condition of the wreckage and any 
significant impact marks.
    (d) The operator of an aircraft involved in an accident or incident 
shall retain all records, reports, internal documents, and memoranda 
dealing with the accident or incident, until authorized by the Board to 
the contrary.