The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has inaugurated a new Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) laboratory at Udaan Bhawan in New Delhi. The facility, established with an investment of INR 90 million, is designed to strengthen the bureau’s capabilities in analyzing flight data and investigating aircraft incidents.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the lab is equipped to retrieve data from damaged flight recorders and conduct analyses using inputs from cockpit voice recorders, radar, and flight data systems. The laboratory has been set up with the support of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which has contributed to equipping the facility with data retrieval and analysis capabilities. HAL also manufactures and repairs flight data recorders domestically.
The facility aims to enable the AAIB to conduct investigations in line with international standards. The lab is expected to improve the accuracy of findings by correlating multiple data sources, helping to determine the root causes of aviation incidents. The Ministry stated that the lab’s ability to carry out comprehensive analyses is aligned with the country’s obligations as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
During the inauguration, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated, “Only through effective and independent investigations can future accidents be prevented.”
AAIB Director General G V G Yugandhar said the facility may also extend support to neighbouring countries for aviation investigations. He added that the lab will also assist in design and procedural updates necessary for accident prevention, especially in the context of plans to manufacture commercial aircraft and helicopters.
Officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Indian Air Force, and representatives from scheduled airlines attended the inauguration.