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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.
Air carriers operating aircraft with 30 or more passenger seats that were built on or after May 16, 2025, must already comply. Air carrier aircraft with 30 or more passenger seats still in use but manufactured before May 16, 2025, must be retrofitted with 25-hour CVRs by May 16, 2030.
The InFO emphasizes that “aircraft owners and operators should assess their fleets, engage with CVR and aircraft manufacturers, and allocate necessary resources to comply with these requirements.”