What is the first step in the DART sequence?

The correct answer, which is aircraft incidence, serves as the initial step in the DART sequence because it focuses on identifying and documenting the occurrence of an incident involving an aircraft. Recognizing the event at this stage is crucial, as it sets the framework for subsequent actions in the DART process, which is centered around effectively responding to aviation incidents to ensure safety and operational readiness.

By starting with the aircraft incidence, the individuals involved can gather essential information and assess the situation before moving on to the next steps, which involve gathering a team and determining recovery strategies. This foundational understanding of what has occurred allows for an effective and timely response, ensuring that all vital information is available for decision-making in later phases of the DART sequence.