NTSB Offers Family Assistance Training for Transportation Professionals

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened applications for its critical Transportation Disaster Assistance Division family assistance operations course, scheduled for March 17-19, 2026. This free, in-person training is designed to equip professionals from rail, air, marine, highway, and pipeline transportation sectors, along with government agencies and non-profit organizations, with the essential skills to support families in the aftermath of major transportation accidents.

The three-day interactive course will feature a comprehensive curriculum including lectures, group discussions, and hands-on exercises. A key component of the training involves participants engaging in a group exercise and observing a mock family briefing conducted by experienced NTSB staff, simulating real-world scenarios to enhance preparedness and response efficacy.

Strategic Impact

This initiative underscores the NTSB’s commitment to fostering robust support systems for victims and their families following catastrophic transportation events. By providing specialized training, the NTSB aims to ensure that response efforts are not only efficient in terms of rescue and recovery but also compassionate and effective in providing crucial assistance to those most affected. The cross-sectoral nature of the course highlights the interconnectedness of the transportation industry and the necessity for collaborative disaster response planning.

Operational Details

Participation in the course is strictly limited to 50 individuals to ensure an optimal learning environment. Prospective attendees are responsible for covering their own travel, accommodation, and any other associated expenses for the duration of the training. The course will be hosted at the NTSB Boardroom and Conference Center in Washington, D.C. All applications must be submitted no later than January 7, 2026, to be considered.

Industry Context

In an era of increasingly complex and interconnected global supply chains and passenger networks, the ability to effectively manage and mitigate the human impact of transportation incidents is paramount. For railway operators, airlines, shipping companies, and trucking firms, demonstrating a preparedness for comprehensive family assistance is becoming a critical aspect of corporate social responsibility and operational excellence. Investment in such training can significantly enhance an organization’s reputation, build public trust, and contribute to a more resilient transportation ecosystem by ensuring that the human element is prioritized during times of crisis.