FAA Mandates Voice, Data Recorder Enhancements

New cockpit voice and flight data recorders must be provide more recording time, independent backup power and better crash survivability, under a FAA final rule.

According to the rule, voice recorders must capture the last two hours of cockpit audio instead of the current 15 to 30 minutes. The rule also requires an independent backup power source for the voice recorders to allow continued recording for nine to 11 minutes if all aircraft power sources are lost or interrupted. Voice recorders also must use solid state technology instead of magnetic tape, which is vulnerable to damage and loss of reliability.

The rule affects manufacturers and operators of airplanes and helicopters with 10 or more seats. Airplanes (not helicopters) operating under Parts 121, 125 or 135 will have to retrofit some equipment by March 7, 2012. The rule also mandates the enhancements on all newly built aircraft and helicopters after March 7, 2010.

The rule also mandates that the recorders measure aircraft data more frequently than is now required, including the aircraft’s primary flight control movements and the pilots’ movement of the controls. The data recorders also must retain the last 25 hours of recorded information. The latter provisions affect new aircraft manufactured after March 7, 2010.