What information does a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) typically capture?

The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) plays a crucial role in aviation safety and incident investigation by capturing a wide array of information throughout a flight. This includes comprehensive details about the aircraft's flight systems, such as altitude, airspeed, engine performance, and control surface positions. Furthermore, it records pilot actions, which comprise inputs to the flight control systems and any operational changes made during the flight.

The importance of this data cannot be overstated; it helps investigators understand the circumstances surrounding an incident by providing insights into both the technical performance of the aircraft and the decisions made by the flight crew. This multifaceted approach contributes to identifying both human factors and mechanical issues that may have contributed to an accident.

In contrast, other choices like flight paths and radar feedback alone do not encompass the full scope of information collected by an FDR. Similarly, focusing solely on passenger cabin conditions or maintenance schedules does not align with the primary function of the FDR, which is specifically designed to record operational data crucial for ensuring safety and compliance in aviation operations.