The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is an independent U.S. government agency responsible for investigating transportation accidents. This includes incidents involving airplanes, trains, ships, and highways. The NTSB's primary goal is to improve safety by determining the causes of accidents and making recommendations to prevent future occurrences. In addition to investigations, the NTSB conducts safety studies and promotes transportation safety initiatives. The agency works closely with other organizations, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), to enhance safety regulations and practices across various modes of transportation.