Flight Data Recorder and CVR System Maintenance Checklist
This Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) system maintenance checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 121.311 (FDR and CVR Requirements), FAA Advisory Circular AC 20-141 (Airworthiness and Operational Approval of Digital Flight Data Recorder Systems), EASA CS 25.1457 CVR and FDR standards, and NTSB accident investigation preservation requirements. Designed for avionics technicians and maintenance managers.
- Industry: Aviation
- Frequency: Monthly
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
- Role: Avionics Technician / Maintenance Manager
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 121.311 FDR and CVR Requirements, FAA AC 20-141 Digital Flight Data Recorder Systems, TSO-C124b Digital Flight Data Recorder Standards, TSO-C123b Cockpit Voice Recorder Standards, NTSB 49 CFR Part 830 FDR/CVR Preservation Requirements
FDR System Checks
Flight Data Recorder maintenance.
- FDR recording all required parameters per FAA Part 121.311?
- FDR periodic readout completed within 12-month requirement?
- FDR parameter accuracy verified within required tolerances?
- FDR power supply and circuit breakers functional?
- FDR failure annunciation system functional?
CVR System Checks
Cockpit Voice Recorder maintenance.
- CVR recording all 4 channels (pilot, copilot, observer, area microphone)?
- CVR audio quality acceptable on all channels?
- CVR retention of minimum 2 hours of most recent recording verified?
- Cockpit area microphone serviceable and positioned correctly?
- CVR erase protection circuit functional?
Underwater Locator Beacon
ULB inspection.
- ULB battery within replacement date?
- ULB acoustic test completed?
- ULB frequency confirmed at 37.5 kHz?
- ULB securely attached to recorder?
- ULB temperature rating adequate for aircraft operating range?
Installation Inspection
Physical installation check.
- Recorder located as far aft as practicable per crashworthiness requirements?
- Recorder fire protection adequate per TSO requirements?
- All electrical connectors secure and free of corrosion?
- Recorder mounting structure secure and anti-vibration mounts in good condition?
- Recorder access panels properly secured?
FDR/CVR Records
Recorder maintenance documentation.
- FDR/CVR maintenance log updated?
- Most recent FDR readout data retained on file?
- FDR/CVR ADs reviewed and complied with?
- FDR software/firmware version documented?
- FDR/CVR Maintenance Notes
Return to Service
RTS documentation.
- Return to service approved by authorized A&P mechanic?
- Logbook entry made per FAA 43.9 for FDR/CVR maintenance?
- No FDR/CVR items deferred on MEL (required to be operational)?
- Flight crew informed of any FDR/CVR maintenance performed?
- RTS Notes
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Why Use This Flight Data Recorder and CVR System Maintenance Checklist?
This flight data recorder and cvr system maintenance checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for avionics technician / maintenance manager professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.
Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 121.311 FDR and CVR Requirements, FAA AC 20-141 Digital Flight Data Recorder Systems, TSO-C124b Digital Flight Data Recorder Standards, TSO-C123b Cockpit Voice Recorder Standards, NTSB 49 CFR Part 830 FDR/CVR Preservation Requirements. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Flight Data Recorder and CVR System Maintenance Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: FDR System Checks, CVR System Checks, Underwater Locator Beacon, Installation Inspection, FDR/CVR Records, Return to Service. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 1-2 hours.
Who should use this Flight Data Recorder and CVR System Maintenance Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Avionics Technician / Maintenance Manager professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.