Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide (ERAU) will hold an online aircraft accident investigation course that begins August 17 and runs until September 13. The free class will cover the accident investigation process, from initial field investigation to publication of the final accident report.

Students will try out their data-collection skills in a virtual crash laboratory that begins with animated crash scenario. They then choose a male or female avatar to be the NTSB investigator who walks through the virtual crash site with an eye to human factors, survival investigative techniques and the application of accident investigation findings in industry and research. Students will also learn to collect and export data that satisfies accident investigation criteria for aircraft structures and systems, as well as operations and maintenance.


The course, which is limited to 2,500 students, is expected to consume four to eight hours of work each week. Students who complete all four modules will receive a certificate of completion. All study materials will be provided and there are no pre-requisites.