Who must typically approve the movement of an aircraft post-accident?

The movement of an aircraft after an accident typically requires approval from the appropriate authority, which is often represented by the Minister or a designated official from aviation regulatory bodies. This is because post-accident procedures are critical for ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The Minister or their representative will assess whether the aircraft can be moved without compromising any investigations or safety protocols. The approval process helps ensure that the integrity of the accident investigation is maintained and that the necessary inspections can occur.

In contrast, while the chief pilot, air traffic controller, and the airline’s safety officer play important roles within their respective domains, they do not have the overarching authority to approve the movement of an aircraft post-accident in the same regulatory capacity as the Minister or regulatory body would. Their roles focus on operational safety, air traffic management, and internal safety protocols but do not encompass the regulatory oversight necessary for aircraft movement following an incident.