What critical information does a Flight Data Recorder capture?

The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) is designed to capture a wide array of flight operational data, which is essential for analyzing aircraft performance and understanding incidents or accidents. This data includes parameters such as altitude, speed, heading, engine performance, and control surface positions, among others. By compiling this data, investigators can reconstruct flights and assess both normal operations and incidents that may occur, making it crucial for safety improvements and regulatory compliance.

In contrast, information about passenger boarding processes focuses on the logistics of getting passengers onto the aircraft, which is not recorded by the FDR. While weather conditions are critical for flight operations, they are typically captured by separate systems, such as the weather radar or reporting stations, rather than the FDR itself. Lastly, personal data and history of pilots are not within the FDR's scope, as it concentrates on mechanical and operational aspects of the flight rather than the individual qualifications or backgrounds of the flight crew. Thus, understanding the role of the Flight Data Recorder emphasizes the importance of operational data in maintaining aviation safety.