An aviation incident refers to any event related to the operation of an aircraft that could affect safety but does not necessarily result in an accident. This can include situations like a near miss, technical malfunction, or a minor runway incursion. Such incidents are important to investigate as they help improve safety measures in the aviation industry. These events are typically reported to aviation authorities, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States. By analyzing these incidents, experts can identify patterns and implement changes to prevent future occurrences, ensuring safer travel for passengers and crew aboard commercial flights.