NTSB Urges FAA to Increase Cockpit Voice Recording Time to 25 Hours for All Aircraft

The NTSB Chair called for an increase in the cockpit voice recording time from 2 hours to 25 hours on all planes, including those already in service. The NTSB groups investigated the structure, system operations, and survival factors of the Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 involved in the incident. The structure group examined the left plug surround structure for any deformations and collected components for further laboratory analysis. The search for the missing door plug continued, with its characteristics and dimensions described. The flight operations group looked into the auto-pressurization fail light, which had turned on during previous flights, and the NTSB is investigating any potential correlation. The survival factors group documented the damage to the interior of the aircraft caused by the explosive decompression, including damage to the panel, trim, and windows, as well as seat damage. The NTSB commended the actions of the flight crew during the incident. The CVR and FDR were sent to labs for analysis, but the CVR was completely overwritten. The NTSB Chair emphasized the need to increase the CVR recording time to 25 hours on all aircraft, not just newly manufactured ones, for improved aviation safety.