Question #51:

In what situations does pilot file reports?

Answer:

Pilots file reports after any abnormal, emergency, or safety‑related event, such as a near miss, bird strike, runway incursion, any deviation from ATC instructions and so on. There are mandatory and voluntary reports. Mandatory reports require pilots to document events that compromise safety. Voluntary reports, often submitted via confidential reporting systems, help identify latent risks without fear of punishment.