1. Recording Data:
- The flight recorder is equipped with multiple sensors that continuously monitor and record various parameters of the aircraft during flight. These parameters include:
- Air speed
- Altitude
- Vertical speed
- Heading
- Engine performance
- Control inputs
- Communication between pilots and air traffic control
2. Data Storage:
- Flight recorders use a combination of magnetic tape and solid-state memory to store the recorded data. The magnetic tape provides longer recording duration, while the solid-state memory ensures fast and accurate data retrieval.
- The flight recorder is designed to withstand extreme conditions such as high temperatures, impact, and water submersion, ensuring the survival and integrity of the recorded data in case of an accident.
3. Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR):
- In addition to the flight data recorder (FDR), aircraft are also equipped with a cockpit voice recorder (CVR). The CVR records all audio communications within the cockpit, including conversations between the pilots, air traffic control, and any other audio signals.
- The CVR provides valuable insights into the actions and discussions of the flight crew during the flight, which can be crucial in understanding the sequence of events leading up to an accident.
4. Data Download and Analysis:
- After an aircraft accident, investigators recover the flight recorder and CVR from the accident site. The recovered recorders are then sent to specialized laboratories for data extraction and analysis.
- The recorded data is downloaded, processed, and synchronized to create a detailed timeline of the events leading up to the accident. This analysis helps investigators understand the causes and contributing factors to the accident, enabling them to make recommendations for preventing similar incidents in the future.
In summary, the black box in aircraft, consisting of the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, plays a critical role in aviation safety investigations by providing valuable data and insights into the events surrounding an aircraft accident. The recorded information aids in determining the cause of the accident and informs measures to enhance flight safety and prevent future such incidents.
