Annex 13 Essential Definitions: Accident, Incident, and Serious Incident

010-13-01Pablo Asensio Martínez2026-03-271 min

Accident

An occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft (from boarding with the intention of flight until disembarking) in which:

  1. A person suffers fatal or serious injury.
  2. The aircraft sustains damage or structural failure which adversely affects the structural strength, performance or flight characteristics and would normally require major repair.
  3. The aircraft is missing or remains completely inaccessible.

Exceptions for damage: Engine failure or damage limited to a single engine, propellers, wing tips, antennas, tyres, brakes, or small dents in the skin. These do not classify as an accident by themselves.

Incident

An occurrence, other than an accident, associated with the operation of an aircraft which affects or could affect the safety of operation.

Serious Incident

An incident involving circumstances indicating that there was a high probability of an accident.

  • The difference between an accident and a serious incident lies only in the result.

Examples of Serious Incidents:

  • Near collision requiring an avoidance manoeuvre.
  • Controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) only marginally avoided.
  • Take-off or landing on a closed or engaged runway.
  • Fire/Smoke in the cockpit or cargo compartment.
  • Flight crew incapacitation.
  • Fuel emergency requiring the declaration of distress.