Black Boxes in Modern Aircrafts — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2026

Which of the following statements with regard to Black Boxes used in modern aircrafts is/are correct?

1. They carry a beacon emitting red light pulses to facilitate underwater detection.
2. They record both the cockpit voice and flight data.
3. Their memory units are made using either stainless steel or titanium.

Select the answer using the code given below:

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 2 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect

• A black box is an electronic flight recording device installed in aircraft to help investigators determine the cause of a crash or technical failure. Painted bright orange or yellow. It reconstructs the sequence of events leading to an accident, enhancing safety and accountability. Mandatory on all commercial aircraft since 1967 to improve air safety standards. The Underwater Locator Beacon on a black box emits ultrasonic acoustic signals, not red light pulses, to aid underwater detection.

Statement 2 is correct

• Black boxes record both cockpit voice and flight data through two separate components: the Cockpit Voice Recorder and the Flight Data Recorder.

Statement 3 is correct

• The crash survivable memory unit is enclosed in stainless steel or titanium.

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Medium