DVI Aviation

The Last Word in Aviation Safety Expertise he National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is widely considered the gold standard for investigating major aviation accidents and improving public safety. As a federal agency, the NTSB plays a vital role in handling large scale incidents and producing findings that inform national policy and regulation across air, rail, and marine transportation. However, its jurisdiction is not all-encompassing, and its investigations often take weeks or even months to mobilize—especially in cases involving urgent or complex issues. Not every organization can afford to wait for lengthy, government-led investigations. This is where DVI Aviation steps in.

DVI Aviation has become a trusted partner to aerospace manufacturers, airlines, defense contractors, MROs (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul providers), and operators who require timely, in-depth analyses of accidents, component failures, and unexplained anomalies. Often regarded as the private-sector counterpart to the NTSB, the company delivers rapid forensic investigations and expert analysis precisely when they are needed most. Its services not only help resolve safety issues but also inform legal strategies and prevent future failures.

A Comprehensive and Confidential Approach to Forensic Investigations

“Our independent and unbiased investigations are thorough, science-driven, and tailored to each client’s distinct needs— whether resolving a safety issue, informing legal strategy, or preventing future failures,” says Dr. Steven J. Meyers, President and Chief Scientist at DVI Aviation.

Unlike the NTSB—whose findings are publicly disclosed and can take months to finalize—DVI Aviation offers a faster, more flexible alternative. Its team mobilizes senior experts within hours—not weeks—to investigate aerospace incidents across a broad spectrum, from aircraft and UAS/ drone failures to spacecraft mishaps and ground-support equipment breakdowns.

The company provides end-to-end failure analysis, including on-site field investigations, wreckage and flight path reconstruction, metallurgical and forensic laboratory services, aircraft systems analysis, structural assessments, and expert testimony.

DVI Aviation’s investigations are science-driven and designed to deliver clarity when time and confidentiality are critical. This capability makes the company indispensable to organizations that cannot afford the delays associated with federal investigations. The company’s service model is also built for discretion: engaging DVI Aviation ensures a level of confidentiality comparable to a doctor-patient relationship. Sensitive data, expert interviews, and reports are protected—an essential feature for clients navigating litigation or safeguarding proprietary information.

Moreover, clients do not need to invest the time or resources to build an in-house accident investigation team, which could take 8 to 10 years to fully develop. DVI’s ability to respond quickly and preserve perishable evidence is invaluable to those requiring immediate action and expert insight.

On-Demand Forensic Investigation and Hands-On Education

DVI Aviation’s core services include accident investigation and aerospace failure analysis, air safety education, and forensic laboratory services—each designed to meet specific and critical needs within the aerospace industry.

Its on-demand accident investigation and failure analysis services offer a private-sector alternative to government-led inquiries. This capability is crucial for resolving safety issues, informing legal decisions, and mitigating future risks. Over its 20-year history, DVI Aviation has built a strong reputation for rapid response, deploying senior specialists from disciplines such as air safety, metallurgy, flight sciences, avionics, structures, and human factors. This multidisciplinary expertise enables the company to address complex issues across a variety of platforms—from traditional aircraft to drones and spacecraft.

Its ability to act quickly ensures that the team can be on-site within hours, preserving evidence and delivering immediate, actionable findings. This rapid-response capability is especially valued by major airlines, OEMs, MROs, and government agencies.

In addition to its investigative work, DVI provides specialized training through its Hands-On Air Safety Education program. This initiative has become a vital resource for addressing the growing skills gap in the aerospace sector, particularly in the wake of industry downsizing and restructuring. The curriculum is designed to capture and transfer critical forensic knowledge that might otherwise be lost

Training incorporates real-world applications such as accident investigation, wreckage reconstruction, microscopy, metallurgical analysis, structural dissections, non-destructive testing, and failure analysis.

Courses are tailored to meet the needs of various sectors—from airlines and OEMs to government entities— and align with FAA/EASA and military protocols. The program also addresses emerging platforms like UAS/drones and small satellites, offering specialized instruction in failure analysis and accident forensics—topics not typically covered in traditional university programs.

Purpose-Built Forensic Laboratory and Lasting Industry Impact

Supporting its investigation work and educational programs, DVI is unique in maintaining a world-class forensic laboratory. The lab is purpose-built for evidence preservation, data collection, and aerospace-specific failure analysis.

With decades of experience in aerospace failure analysis and an unwavering commitment to confidentiality and rapid response, DVI Aviation has established itself as an indispensable partner in the aerospace industry. Whether resolving an immediate crisis or preparing the next generation of forensic experts, the company remains dedicated to shaping a safer, more reliable future for aviation.