The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is an independent federal agency established in 1967 to investigate transportation accidents and improve safety across the United States. Originally created within the Department of Transportation, the NTSB gained full independence in 1974 to ensure objective, nonpartisan investigations. Its mission is to determine the probable causes of major accidents in aviation, rail, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space transportation, and to issue safety recommendations aimed at preventing future tragedies. Since its inception, the NTSB has investigated over 153,000 aviation accidents and thousands of surface transportation events, issuing more than 15,500 safety recommendations. Notably, about 82% of its closed recommendations have been implemented, reflecting its significant impact on transportation safety. The agency is renowned for its forensic and technical expertise, often deploying teams globally within hours of a major incident. Its findings have led to critical changes in regulations, technology, and operational practices across industries. The NTSB is led by five Senate-confirmed board members, each serving five-year terms, and operates with approximately 400 employees across its Washington, D.C., headquarters and regional offices. While best known for its aviation accident investigations, the NTSB also probes major highway crashes, train derailments, marine disasters, and pipeline ruptures—especially those involving fatalities, substantial property damage, or environmental harm. A notable aspect of the NTSB’s work is its role as an appellate authority for aviation and mariner certificate disputes, and its ability to provide technical support in criminal investigations, such as the 9/11 attacks. Today, the NTSB remains a vital force in advancing transportation safety, leveraging cutting-edge technology and research to shape the future of travel and logistics in the U.S.