FAA Rule Spurs New Generation of Advanced Cockpit Voice Recorders

The FAA's new rule requiring cockpit voice recorders (CVRs) on most new-production aircraft in the U.S. is driving innovation in avionics technology, according to industry leaders.

Honeywell Avionics' Director of Product Management for Services and Connectivity, Borka Vlacic, said that when the 25-hour CVR mandate was announced, they saw an opportunity to improve their recorders by utilizing other technologies. 'We realized how central the CVR can be to making the system more efficient,' Vlacic explained.

The new generation of CVRs will not only capture voice and data for up to 25 hours but also stream that information off the aircraft almost in real-time to a highly secure satellite network. Honeywell's General Manager of Services and Connectivity, Lori Des Roches, added that they are working with industry partners to design and build out this ecosystem.

The FAA rule applies to aircraft manufactured after May 16, 2022, operated under various regulations, with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of at least 59,525 pounds (27,000 kg) and 29 or fewer passenger seats. The mandate is intended to enhance operational safety, data accessibility, and support timely accident investigations.