Understanding the Role of Black Boxes in Aviation Safety

In India, numerous commercial flights operate daily, soaring through the skies. Near the cockpit of these aircraft, you will find robust boxes painted in bright orange, known as black boxes.

 

These boxes are designed to continuously record flight data without interruption. The recent incident involving an Air India aircraft highlights the significance of black boxes, as they can provide crucial information. Modern aircraft are equipped with essential devices such as Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVR) and Digital Flight Data Recorders (DFDR), which capture vital data and conversations during flights. These recorders are brightly colored for high visibility, making them easier to locate in the event of an accident. In some planes, both recorders are integrated into a single unit.

 

Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau

It is noteworthy that in April 2025, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) established a flight recorder laboratory in Delhi to enhance the effectiveness of accident investigations. The DFDR is designed in bright orange to ensure it is visible from a distance and is made from reflective materials. It remains operational even underwater, securely connected for signaling.

The AAIB is responsible for investigating aircraft accidents and also recommends measures to improve safety. Following the incident of an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that occurred after takeoff from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, the AAIB is currently conducting an investigation.