The NTSB has upgraded its search query tool for reports and recommendations. The new CAROL system (Case Analysis and Reporting OnLine) is a sweet “nod” to former NTSB analyst Carol Floyd, who retired in 2017. The link to the new database search tool with keyword search option is here: https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/keyword-search

We recommend using the “basic search” features to find monthly reports. Search for “Investigations” and it will allow you to enter the dates you would like to search (after 2010); For prior reports, the NTSB website is still required. The reports can also be searched by location and other keywords.

Where docket information is available, the NTSB has provided a link; If a Preliminary Report or Factual Report is available, there is a PDF icon to click on. The + icon on the right also allows a quick view of additional information about the item, such as the type of aircraft involved.

The guide to using the query search tools is here: https://www.ntsb.gov/Documents/CAROL-Guide.pdf It appears to be a more robust option for our search of the reports, including searching for keywords in the narratives and recommendations, which may prove quite useful in aviation accident cases.