Get out of jail free card. (NASA Form ARC 277B)

[GAHorn]

A fellow member asked about the NASA "Blue Form" or ARC 277B. I thought everyone might like to refresh themselves about it. From their website:

A "NASA Form," or ARC Form 277B, http://www.aopa.org/members/pic/library ... .html#nasa
is available to pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers to report aviation operations that may compromise safety. Under certain circumstances, it can also protect pilots from fines and/or suspensions.

It is an integral part of the FAA's Aviation Safety Reporting Program.

NASA acts as a third party to receive and analyze Aviation Safety Reports.
NASA designed and administers the Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS).
Reports can be submitted by pilots, controllers, and mechanics.
The program is structured to guarantee confidentiality and anonymity.
The primary purpose of the ASRS is to improve safety by providing for the free, unrestricted flow of information from the users of the NAS by providing immunity from disciplinary action under certain circumstances.

Immunity from fine or penalty may be granted if:

The "NASA Form" was sent within 10 days of event.
The burden of proof is on the reporter (you) that the report was sent.
The violation was inadvertent and not deliberate.
The violation did not involve a criminal offense or accident.
The reporter was not previously found in violation of the regulations within five years before the date of the event.
The FAA does not determine that the pilot was not qualified or competent to hold the certificate under which he claimed to be operating.
Procedure for participating in the Aviation Safety Reporting Program:

Send in the "NASA Form" within 10 days of the event (certified mail, return receipt requested is suggested). NASA ARC Form 277B is postage-paid.
The form is also available online in two formats: one you can print, fill out, and mail; the other you fill out online and submit electronically. (Print yourself a copy and keep it!)
NASA de-identifies the reporter in most circumstances. However, the reporter is not de-identified in the case of:
A criminal offense (the FAA and Department of Justice are notified).
An accident (NTSB and the FAA are notified).
The portion of form that contains the reporter's name and address is stamped and returned to the reporter.
Some information may be used in a public newsletter and/or FAA policies.
The FAA will fully investigate if a violation is suspected but will not query NASA or the alleged violator to see if a "NASA form" has been submitted. It is only during the FAA's formal enforcement action that you may request immunity. Though immunity could be granted, the violation becomes part of the reporter's file.