Air Accidents Investigation Branch homepage
Working for AAIB
The recruitment process, eligibility and duties of inspectors at the Air Accidents Investigations Branch.
When we have vacancies, we advertise them in the aviation industry magazine Flight International and local/national newspapers depending upon the post.
Eligibility for inspector posts
Operations inspector
Operations inspectors must:
- hold a current airline transport pilot’s licence with a valid class 1 medical certificate
- have a broad based knowledge of aviation
- have appropriate command experience on civil fixed wing aircraft or helicopters.
Engineering inspector
Engineering inspectors must:
- hold an engineering degree and/or be a chartered engineer
- have extensive professional aviation engineering experience
- have knowledge and experience of modern aircraft systems
Possession of a pilot’s licence or some experience as a pilot is desirable.
Flight recorder inspector
Flight recorder inspectors must:
- hold a degree in electronics/electrical engineering or an aeronautical engineering related subject and/or be a chartered member of a relevant engineering institute
- have extensive knowledge and experience of modern avionics
- have a knowledge of aircraft performance
Broad-based professional aviation engineering experience is an advantage.
Duties of inspectors
The duties of all inspectors include:
- conducting effective and efficient investigations to determine the causes of accidents and incidents
- contributing to the timely publication of reports
- producing draft safety recommendations that are well researched and effective in reducing risk within the industry
- preparing and presenting statements and evidence at legal hearings including coroners’ inquests, fatal accident inquiries
- sharing knowledge and enhancing international standards of accident and incident investigation
