The smart cockpit recorder

Why is it important to have a comprehensive cockpit audio, video and flight data recorder in special missions?

There is a growing trend globally towards mandating cockpit recording systems (CRSs) for air medical, and search and rescue (SAR) operators. The need for datadriven safety improvements, accountability, and incident investigations is driving this requirement. In addition, growing numbers of operators are voluntarily installing a CRS primarily to enhance flight performance and improve in-flight safety for their pilots and aircrew for future special mission operations or first response.

How does the Flightcell SmartHUB differ from previous types of complicated and bulky recorders?

Historically, older CRSs were larger, heavier, and more expensive, necessitating that aircraft be out of service for several days during the installation process. The complexity of installing these bulky recorders in light aircraft and helicopters is cost prohibitive. However, today’s CRSs, including the Flightcell SmartHUB, are much lighter, more compact, cost effective, and far easier to install. The list price for our Flightcell SmartHUB is US$7,500 and complies with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rule 135.607 for helicopter air ambulance operators. It’s a two-piece system, with the small USB camera being easily mounted discreetly in the cockpit, and the user interface unit can be installed up to 5m away from the camera, for example, in the avionics bay (it does not have to be accessible to the pilot in flight). Furthermore, and unique to the Flightcell SmartHUB, no internal battery or charging circuitry is required, simplifying installation and certification as it only requires a minor modification or field approval, not a supplemental type certificate (STC). A four-way Ethernet switch is also available to connect other devices.

What other benefits does the Flightcell SmartHUB bring to the operational effectiveness of high-stress missions?

The Flightcell SmartHUB can be installed with one or two cameras. The video, audio and flight data is available for immediate post-flight analysis by downloading over Wi-Fi, USB or Ethernet. A second camera installed in the aircraft cabin is becoming increasingly popular with emergency medical services and SAR operators. These multicrew operators access their data post-missions (which requires no ongoing subscriptions) and utilize video and audio recordings to analyze and enhance patient care, as well as refine aircrew procedures during flight, all to make their special missions safer for crew and patients.