Regulations and Government
FAA InFO Outlines CVR Upgrade Deadlines
Larger new bizav aircraft face 2027 deadline, while small new turbine bizav aircraft have 2029 deadline
FAA building, Washington DC
The FAA has worked closely with industry to re-register aircraft that were grounded. © AIN archives

The FAA has issued an Information for Operators (InFO 26013) highlighting the mandated timelines for the installation of cockpit voice recorders (CVRs) that capture and retain at least 25 hours of audio data. The InFO is based on the 25-hour CVR rules published on February 6. The final rule applies only to aircraft currently required to have a CVR.

For operations under Parts 91, 125, or 135, aircraft that have an MTOW of 59,525 pounds or more, 29 or fewer passenger seats, and are manufactured starting Feb. 2, 2027, must be equipped with a 25-hour CVR. Aircraft weighing under 59,525 pounds and built on or after Feb. 2, 2029, must have a 25-hour CVR installed. There is no retrofit requirement for business aircraft.