As a part of federal air regulations , NTSB Part 830 , protects any aircraft whose accident cause is under investigation . NTSB officials will routinely seize portions of wrecked aircraft for further analysis . Most of the time , after their study is complete , the sequestered debris is returned to the owners ' representation – most often the aircraft 's insurance company . However , examples like the reconstructed wreckage of TWA Flight 800 are held in perpetuity by the NTSB to education the public and future investigators on the NTSB 's role in transportation safety . The laws in the UK cover the remains of all aircraft which have crashed during military service ( land or sea ) are protected by the Protection of Military Remains Act 1986 . This Act defines an offence of tampering with , damage to , moving , or unearthing the aircraft remains . Exceptions apply to those holding licences , which can be issued by the Secretary of State , authorising specific procedures to be performed
TWA Flight 800
TWA Flight 800
Aviation archaeology