ICAO seeks new standards for flight data recorders

ICAO announced it hopes to set new standards for flight data recorders, to make the devices fitted to commercial aircraft easier to find after an accident (Dow Jones, 02-May-2011). The new standards will be applied to existing aircraft as well as those under construction and design. Changes include extending the life of radio beacons from 30 to 90 days and enhancing the signal strength of the devices. ICAO also wants to ensure that recorders can float in case of water landings or accidents.