JAKARTA — Following the Lion Air JT-610 crash en route from Jakarta to Pangkal Pinang, authorities are not only searching for victims but also the aircraft’s black box—a critical device that preserves cockpit conversations and flight data. Both the flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) are essential in determining the sequence of events leading up to a crash.
1. Invented by an Australian Scientist
The “black box” was first invented in the mid-1950s by Australian scientist Dr. David Warren. While investigating the mysterious crashes of the early jet airliner Comet, he proposed a device capable of recording cockpit conversations and flight data. The first demonstration unit was produced in 1957, making Australia the pioneer in requiring commercial aircraft to carry these devices.
2. It's Not Actually Black
Despite its name, the black box is painted bright orange for visibility and easier recovery. The media coined the term “black box,” possibly due to its initial dark color or a journalist describing it as a “elegant black box”—a legacy that stuck even after the color changed.
3. Consists of Two Units
The black box system includes two separate devices:
- Flight Data Recorder (FDR): Logs critical flight parameters such as airspeed, altitude, and fuel level.
- Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR): Records cockpit conversations and ambient noise. Both units are typically located in the aircraft's tail section for better protection.
4. Nearly Indestructible
Black boxes are engineered with extreme durability. The FDR is built with stainless steel or titanium to withstand harsh conditions. Testing has shown they can endure over one hour in a 1,110 °C furnace, or up to 10 hours at 260 °C. They also operate in temperatures from –55 to 70 °C.
5. Limited Voice Recording
While the FDR holds up to 25 hours of flight data, the CVR only records the most recent two hours in a continuous loop—capturing crew communication and critical ambient sounds that provide context during investigation.
6. Equipped with Underwater Locator Beacon (ULB)
Modern black boxes feature an underwater locator beacon that automatically activates upon water contact. These beacons can emit signals from depths up to 4 kilometers and remain active for up to 30 days, aiding recovery after a crash at sea.
Conclusion
The black box may look simple, but it’s a marvel of engineering designed to survive extreme trauma. With vital voice and flight data, it plays an irreplaceable role in aviation safety and crash investigation. In the case of Lion Air JT-610, recovery of the black box is key to understanding what went wrong and preventing future tragedies.
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