Understanding Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) Program Requirements

by | Apr 15, 2025 | CFOQA, FDM, Flight Data Monitoring, Flight Safety, FOQA

If you’re involved in aviation—whether as a pilot, safety officer, or operations manager—you’ve probably heard about Flight Data Monitoring (FDM). But what exactly is it, and what do you need to set up a successful FDM program? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Is Flight Data Monitoring?

At its core, FDM is about proactively identifying potential safety risks before they become incidents. It involves collecting and analyzing flight data to spot trends, deviations from standard procedures, and operational risks.

Airlines, helicopter operators, and business jet fleets use FDM to improve safety, comply with regulations, and enhance operational efficiency. Many regulatory agencies worldwide encourage or even require FDM for certain types of operators.

What Do I Need to Get Started?

If you’re looking to implement an FDM program, here are the basic elements you need:

  1. Flight Data Recording Equipment
    • To monitor your flights, you will need a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) or a Quick Access Recorder (QAR) that captures aircraft performance and operational data.
    • Many modern aircraft already have built-in systems that can be leveraged for FDM.
    • Below are a couple examples of modern Wireless Quick Access Recorders (WQAR), courtesy FLYHT Aerospace (click on each respective image if you are interested in learning more about these modern recording systems).

 

AFIRS Edge(TM) 5G Wireless QAR
Small form factor WQAR
(Courtesy FLYHT Aerospace)

AFIRS Edge+(TM) 5G Wireless QAR
Plug & Play, All-In-One LRU Upgrade
(Courtesy FLYHT Aerospace)

  1. Data Extraction and Storage
  • Once flight data is recorded, it must be extracted from the aircraft and securely stored for analysis.
  • Some operators manually download data, while others (such as the FLYHT examples above) use wireless or automatic data transfer to significantly simplify the process.
  1. Data Analysis Software
  • Raw flight data is complex, so specialized software (like our Sky Analyst FDM) is used to convert it into meaningful insights.
  • The software applies algorithms and thresholds to detect unstable approaches, hard landings, excessive bank angles, and other safety-related events.
  1. Defined Safety Thresholds & Event Triggers
  • Every FDM program needs clear criteria for what constitutes a safety event.
  • These thresholds are typically based on industry best practices and can be customized to an operator’s specific needs.
  1. A Flight Data Monitoring Team
  • FDM isn’t just about data—it’s about action. A designated team (often led by a safety officer) should review and interpret the data.
  • This team works closely with pilots, maintenance crews, and management to identify safety improvements.
  • Smaller operators who cannot justify the costs associated with a dedicated team can outsource this work to a third-party such as Scaled Analytics at significantly reduced costs.
  1. Confidentiality & Non-Punitive Culture
  • FDM works best when pilots and crew trust the system. Data should be used for safety improvements, not for disciplinary actions.
  • Many organizations have strict policies to ensure that FDM data remains confidential and is only used for operational enhancements.
  1. Feedback Loop & Corrective Actions
  • Gathering data is one thing, but what you do with it is what really matters.
  • The FDM team should provide regular reports, safety debriefings, and recommended corrective actions to address identified risks.

Benefits of a Well-Run FDM Program

  • Improved Safety: By identifying trends early, operators can take proactive measures to prevent accidents.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Many aviation authorities require FDM for certain operations.
  • Operational Efficiency: Better data can lead to improved fuel management, reduced maintenance costs, and optimized flight procedures.
  • Enhanced Training: Real-world flight data helps pilots improve their decision-making skills.

Getting Started

If you’re considering an FDM program for your operation, the key is to start simple. Work with a provider that understands your needs and offers a solution that’s easy to use. Our Sky Analyst FDM software is designed with non-technical users in mind, making it easier than ever to turn flight data into actionable insights.

Have questions? Feel free to reach out to us—we’d be happy to help you get started on your FDM journey!

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