Revisions to Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorder Regulations

FAA-2005-20245 - Revisions to Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recorder Regulations

February 22, 2005

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

The FAA proposes to amend the cockpit voice recorder and digital flight data recorder regulations for certain air carriers, operators, and aircraft manufacturers. This proposed rule would increase the duration of CVR and flight data recorder recordings; increase the data recording rate of certain DFDR parameters; require physical separation of the DFDR and CVR; improve the reliability of the power supply to both the CVR and DFDR; and if data-link communication equipment is installed, require that all data-link communications received on an aircraft be recorded. This proposal is based on recommendations issued by the National Transportation Safety Board following the investigations of several accidents and incidents, and includes other revisions that the FAA has determined are necessary. The proposed improvements to the CVR and DFDR systems are intended to improve the quality and quantity of information recorded and increase the potential for retaining important information needed during accident and incident investigations.

By: Ronald Wojnar