How black boxes reconstruct a crash

Information from an aircraftÕs flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder Ð the so-called Òblack boxesÓ Ð is used to create an interactive animation of the flight displays in the final moments before a crash

Flight Data Recorder

Underwater Locator Beacon

Stainless steel or titanium memory unit can withstand impact 3,400 times force of gravity and temperatures up to 1,100¡C

Primary Flight Display: Shows Òbig-fiveÓ flight instruments Ð artificial horizon, airspeed in knots, altimeter in feet above sea level, vertical speed in feet per minute, and compass heading

Cockpit Voice Recorder

Flash memory

Black boxes record flight parameters, cockpit sounds and conversations

Navigation Display: Weather radar, route plan and aircraft systems data such as fuel, engine power and state of electrical systems

Sources: CAE Flightscape, Honeywell ED-55 Flight Data Recording System