What is crucial for the investigation of an aviation accident?

The preservation of the accident site is crucial for the investigation of an aviation accident because it allows investigators to gather accurate and comprehensive evidence about the circumstances surrounding the incident. This includes physical evidence such as debris, flight control positions, and environmental factors that can provide insights into what transpired during the flight. When the site is preserved, investigators can conduct a thorough examination of the wreckage and other relevant materials without contamination or alteration of the evidence.

This process is vital for determining the cause of the accident, which can lead to recommendations for safety improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future. In contrast, immediate repairs and removals at the scene can destroy critical evidence and severely hinder the investigation, making it difficult to ascertain the actual sequence of events that led to the accident.