NTSB launches improved CAROL and Aviation Investigation search functions

The NTSB announced Monday it updated its CAROL database and aviation investigation search functions. The CAROL database has been expanded to include aviation data on investigations from 1962 to the present.

CAROL, or Case Analysis and Reporting Online, has a new landing page with links to all search pages. “Simple Search” and “Advanced Search” have been renamed “Basic Investigation and Recommendation Search” and “Custom Search Builder.” The Custom Search Builder lets the user build a search for investigations or recommendations using any parameter from the database. This includes common investigation fields like NTSB number or date and aviation-specific fields like aircraft type and phase of flight.

The NTSB has also relaunched the Aviation Query page, now the Aviation Investigation Search. The page allows users to search all aviation investigations and has expansive download capabilities for CSV and JSON downloads, which now include hyperlinks to the reports and dockets.

The updates were based on extensive user feedback. The NTSB will continue to welcome any comments and input on the search functions and CAROL database. The search tools give users access to decades of investigations and safety recommendations. This includes aviation, rail, pipeline, hazardous materials, marine and highway.

The NSTB conducts investigations and publishes reports and recommendations to bring awareness to the conditions that led to an accident or incident, whether it results in injury or death or not.