Flight Data Recorder

Flight Data Recorders (FDRs), also known as "black boxes," are devices used in aircraft to record various flight parameters and events. They fall under the supply class Flight Instruments, which is part of the supply group Instruments And Laboratory Equipment.

Flight Data Recorders are designed to capture and store critical flight data, including altitude, airspeed, heading, vertical acceleration, control inputs, and engine performance. They also record information from various aircraft systems, such as the autopilot, navigation systems, and communication systems.

The primary purpose of Flight Data Recorders is to provide valuable information for accident investigation and analysis. In the event of an incident or accident, the recorded data can be retrieved and analyzed to determine the sequence of events leading up to the incident. This information is crucial for understanding the cause of the accident and implementing safety improvements.

Flight Data Recorders are typically built to withstand extreme conditions, including high temperatures, impact forces, and water immersion. They are usually located in the tail section of the aircraft, where they are less likely to be damaged in the event of a crash.

In addition to Flight Data Recorders, aircraft may also be equipped with Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVRs), which record audio from the cockpit. CVRs are often combined with FDRs into a single unit known as a Flight Recorder or Flight Data Acquisition Unit (FDAU).

Overall, Flight Data Recorders play a vital role in aviation safety by providing objective and accurate data for accident investigation and analysis.