Air accident experts advance aviation safety and focus on family communication
Videoconference, 6–7 November 2024 — The 61st meeting of the ECAC Group of Experts on Air Accident and Incident Investigation (ACC) was chaired by Crispin Orr of the United Kingdom’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). The group discussed latest updates and developments in accident investigations. The meeting covered ongoing investigations and other important topics for advancing good investigation practices, and benefitted from valuable contributions from ATR and Airbus.
A key topic of discussion was best practices for investigators when liaising with families of victims after accidents. Presentations emphasised the importance of transparency when communicating with victims' families, and of sharing factual information to build trust and prevent the spread of misinformation.
Updates on ICAO activities, such the main outcomes of the last ICAO Accident Investigation Panel held in September, were also shared with the participants. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) provided updates on its efforts to integrate human factor considerations into certification processes. This initiative aims to improve safety through enhanced feedback loops between design and operational practices.
Looking ahead, the group confirmed plans for its next meetings in 2025, including the ACC/62 meeting in Vienna in May, and an ACC workshop to be held in Roskilde, Denmark in November.