If a flight crew member is incapacitated during flight, what is the required action?

In the scenario of a flight crew member incapacitated during flight, it is crucial to notify the appropriate authorities to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The requirement to inform the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is part of maintaining the integrity of safety oversight and investigation processes in aviation. This notification allows the NTSB to assess the situation and determine if further investigation or action is necessary, especially if the incapacitation could be linked to broader safety concerns.

Communicating this incident to the NTSB indicates a responsible approach to incident reporting and ensures that all relevant data is documented for future safety analyses. It highlights the importance of prompt communication in aviation safety, particularly regarding events that could have implications for flight safety and operational protocols.

Other options, while they may involve notifying certain parties about an incapacitated crew member, do not address the requirement for reporting to the NTSB directly and immediately, which is a crucial step in adhering to aviation regulations and ensuring thorough investigation of safety issues.