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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 121.359

Cockpit voice recorders

Read the official rule

This regulation requires Part 121 air carriers to install and operate cockpit voice recorders (CVRs) on large turbine-powered and certain large pressurized airplanes. The CVR must run continuously from the pre-flight checklist through the post-flight checklist.

Key requirements vary by aircraft size and manufacturing date:

  • Larger aircraft: Must have CVRs meeting specific technical standards, with bright orange/yellow containers and underwater locating devices
  • 10-19 seat turbine aircraft: Need approved CVRs operated continuously during flight operations
  • 20-30 seat turbine aircraft: Similar requirements with additional installation specifications
  • Recording duration: Newer aircraft (manufactured after April 2010) or those manufactured after May 2025 must retain 25 hours of audio; older aircraft need at least 2 hours

After accidents or reportable incidents, carriers must preserve recordings for at least 60 days. The FAA cannot use CVR recordings for enforcement actions. Aircraft with boom microphones must use them below 18,000 feet MSL.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.