What is the primary purpose of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR)?

The primary purpose of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) is to record flight parameters for investigation. This device gathers and stores critical data from various aircraft systems during a flight, including speed, altitude, heading, and other important metrics. In the event of an incident or accident, the collected data can be analyzed to determine the sequence of events leading up to the occurrence, which helps investigators identify potential causes and improve aviation safety.

While navigation, communication, and monitoring fuel consumption are essential functions in aviation, these tasks are handled by different systems or equipment onboard the aircraft. The FDR's specific role is related to data recording and analysis, making it a vital tool in understanding and enhancing flight safety protocols.