The _______ of the unit to which a mishap aircraft is permanently assigned has full responsibility for the recovery and salvage of their aircraft.

• A. Executive officer
• B. Commanding officer
• C. Squadron commander
• D. Logistics officer

Answer: (B)

The unit’s commanding officer holds final authority and responsibility for any mishap recovery and salvage actions. This ensures clear accountability and rapid, coordinated decision-making on-site, directing recovery teams, allocating resources, and coordinating with base operations, security, and maintenance to preserve evidence and restore the aircraft to service. The executive officer acts as the CO’s deputy and handles staff coordination, but ultimate responsibility lies with the CO. The logistics officer focuses on parts and support, not the overall recovery authority.