What role does video play in studying aviation accidents and investigating whether an aircraft functioned correctly?

Video has become an invaluable tool for accident investigators, serving as what Gregory Feith calls 'electronic witnesses' that provide unbiased factual data. Unlike human witnesses who might confuse details, videos don't lie or fabricate stories - they show exactly what happened. In earlier days of aviation investigation, NTSB relied heavily on witness statements and had to separate fact from fiction, but modern video evidence offers clear documentation of events. For incidents like the Delta Airlines landing, video analysis allows investigators to examine crucial details about aircraft performance and equipment function, providing objective evidence that significantly enhances the investigation process.