TITLE 22 - FOREIGN RELATIONS

CHAPTER I - DEPARTMENT OF STATE

SUBCHAPTER K - ECONOMIC, COMMERCIAL AND CIVIL AVIATION FUNCTIONS

PART 102 - CIVIL AVIATION

subpart a - UNITED STATES AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS ABROAD

102.15 - Protection and preservation of wreckage.

In so far as local law permits, the Foreign Service representative should see that arrangements are made (by the airline representative with the local authorities, if a scheduled carrier is involved) for the protection of the wrecked aircraft and its property contents against further damage, pilferage, and access by unauthorized persons, until the arrival of the accident investigation personnel. The prior removal of any of the wreckage or the contents of the aircraft should be prevented unless such action is necessitated by very compelling reasons, such as the need for treating the injured or for removing bodies, or when the wreckage constitutes a public hazard. When under the latter conditions the wreckage and contents of the aircraft must be moved or disturbed in any way, if possible, a record should be made or photographs taken showing the position and condition of the wreckage prior to disturbance.

In the case of a private aircraft or non-scheduled carrier, protection should be arranged for the wrecked aircraft and its contents pending the receipt of information from the Department as to whether the Civil Aeronautics Board will investigate the case, and until final disposition is made of the property. If the owner of a private aircraft is killed in the wreck and is a United States citizen, the aircraft constitutes part of his personal estate and should be disposed of in accordance with the provisions of 72.15 to 72.55 of this chapter. For rules governing the payment of expenses in connection with the protection and preservation of wrecked United States aircraft, see 102.11.