Flight data refers to information related to aircraft operations. This data can include various types of information depending on its context. One type of flight data present on an aircraft is the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), commonly known as the black box.
How Important Is Flight Data For Airlines?
Flight data contains hundreds to thousands of flight parameters, depending on the type and complexity of the aircraft, its systems, and the year and technology of the recording equipment used. The recorded parameters include operational data as well as the condition and status of aircraft components and systems.
According to Gunta Akhiri, Director of PT. Aering, flight data from black boxes was initially used for aircraft accident investigations. However, the use of black box data has evolved over time to include safety monitoring of aircraft operations, routine maintenance, predictive diagnostics, and even crew training.
“Although initially black box data was intended for aircraft investigation purposes, its use has evolved to include operational safety monitoring, routine maintenance, aircraft condition prediction, and crew training programs,” Gunta stated to the AviaX Group.
Data available from continuous flight operations over extended periods can be used to predict the condition of aircraft components and systems. This predictive capability plays a crucial role in aircraft maintenance.
Gunta further explained that aviation regulators have now issued safety regulations under the Civil Aviation Safety Regulation (CASR), requiring airlines to conduct regular annual analysis of flight data to assess the condition and maintenance of the recording system itself, known as the FDR Readout. Regulators also mandate airlines to analyze flight data from each flight operation through programs such as the Flight Data Analysis Program (FDAP – ICAO), Flight Data Monitoring (FDM – EASA), or Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA – FAA).
“The FDR Readout ensures that the recording system is functioning properly and is available when needed for accident or incident investigations. FDAP analyzes flight data to identify problems and potential risks during aircraft operations,” he explained.
Given The Critical Importance Of Flight Data, What Happens If An Issue Is Found With An Aircraft’s FDR?
According to Gunta, all aircraft component and equipment repairs are regulated under CASR. If a fault is detected, as a provider of flight data systems, the company will recommend repairs through the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) division.
“Repairs of aircraft components and equipment are regulated by CASR. If analysis detects issues with components or the FDR system, Aering will advise the customer to conduct troubleshooting and repairs. Should troubleshooting reveal a fault with the FDR component itself, repair is at the customer’s discretion to forward the unit to an MRO or repair station authorized to perform such work,” he said.
Furthermore, for reading CVR and FDR systems, if an operator lacks the capacity and facilities to conduct independent readouts, third-party service providers may be used, provided they have been audited by the operator. This requirement is outlined in the operator’s Company or Quality Manual.
“PT. Aering also maintains open communication lines in case regulators wish to conduct a survey of PT. Aering, accompanied by the relevant customer,” he concluded.