UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 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

Answer

Correct Answer

2 and 3 only

Explanation

Aircraft black boxes comprise flight recording systems that record cockpit audio and flight parameters, so statement 2 is correct. For underwater recovery, they use an Underwater Locator Beacon that emits acoustic or ultrasonic signals rather than red light pulses, making statement 1 incorrect. The crash-survivable memory unit is protected by highly durable materials, including stainless steel or titanium, allowing it to withstand severe impact, heat and pressure. Therefore statement 3 is correct.

Topics: aviation technology, black box, flight safety, science and technology