Addresses important aspects of investigating crashes, who does this kind of work, and how a healthy attitude and open mind are required to properly perform investigations. The book also discusses what to expect from the on-scene part of the investigation, and the fundamental approaches to common types of wreckage reconstruction.
Basic Science and Art of Aircraft Wreckage Reconstruction is a unique title which addresses important aspects of investigating crashes, who does this kind of work, and how a healthy attitude and open mind are required to properly perform investigations. It also discusses what to expect from the on-scene part of the investigation, and the fundamental approaches to common types of wreckage reconstruction.
Written by Don Knutson, a veteran of this industry, Basic Science and Art of Aircraft Wreckage Reconstruction is intended for the practitioner, student, or those who are simply curious about how aircraft wreckage is reconstructed. Full references are provided in the various chapters for additional reading and research.
Many examples of aircraft crash scenarios and circumstances are presented in a “generic” form but relate to actual investigations, which should prove as a useful investigative resource whether you are an apprentice or an experience professional with a government aviation agency (NTSB, AAIB, FAA, etc.), an aircraft/engine/component manufacturer, military branch, insurance company, law enforcement agency, or a law firm.
Basic Science and Art of Aircraft Wreckage Reconstruction is a must-read book for all who are passionate about the subject and want to understand how this activity actually happens in the field.
"Properly and thoroughly documenting a crash site is the foundation of any aircraft accident investigation. Knutson's book provides the reader with excellent guidance on the documentation and reconstruction process. The book is also a good field guide for anyone investigating an aircraft accident. My graduate students enjoyed using the book as a course text, and especially liked how the author connected his experience and personal stories. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about the art and science of aircraft accident investigation."
Anthony T. Brickhouse, MSA, ASI
Associate Professor, Aerospace & Occupational Safety
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Don Knutson has performed hundreds of crash investigations domestically and internationally involving various models of civilian and military aircraft since 1991. He is President of Knutson Aviation Services, a consulting firm specializing in aircraft accident and wreckage reconstruction, airframe and powerplant system failure analysis, and air safety education and research. Don has developed and taught college and continuing education courses on aircraft accident investigation (AAI) for the Wichita State University Aerospace Engineering and Lewis University Aviation programs. Prior to starting KAS, Don was with The Boeing Company as a Flight Test Engineer where he evaluated fuel system designs and remote aerial refueling operations for the 767 Tanker program. He was the Director of Aviation for a forensics engineering firm where he provided AAI consulting and business development. Don is a full member of the International Society of Air Safety Investigators, a Technical Counselor and Young Eagles Pilot for the Experimental Aircraft Association, a certified fire and explosion investigator, and serves on a technical committee involving standards development of general aviation aircraft for the American Society for Testing and Materials International. He is an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic (since 1981) and pilot.
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