Dear
Captain Segaloff,
Per
our phone discussion several weeks ago we discussed adding another dimension to
FOQA. I brought up the fact that we have
a valuable source of data that is dormant.
This data is only obtained after an accident has occurred. To add another powerful tool to Safety
Management Systems (SMS), I proposed CVR data be added into the FOQA Program.
Our
vision is to enhance the three critical elements of SMS - ASAP, LOSA, and FOQA,
very powerful set of data collection tools with the introduction of CVR
recordings. Today's FOQA data deals only
with the FDR. This is excellent data
that provides powerful safety enhancements - but has certain limitations, only
a visual representation. If one could
overlay the recording from the CVR to provide sound, not only for flight deck
communications, but also for the numerous other sounds generated within the flight
deck, SMS would immediately move to much higher Level of Safety. The power of data cannot be over
emphasized. The impact to
standardization would be tremendous.
As
you may know, the FAA in 2001 codified enforcement protection for any operator
who operates aircraft under a FOQA program approved by FAA. The regulations
provide protection against disclosure of certain safety information and
security information submitted to the FAA on a voluntary basis. There are many policies and procedures that
protect the pilot in the use of FDR Data.
Adding CVR data the same protections would apply.
We
request you and you leadership review the feasibility of using CVR recordings
as part of our enhanced FOQA program.
on September 29, 2010 2:18 PM | Reply
Very nice for you to publish this letter so that we are able to get to knw the other side of the company as well.