Minute-by-Minute Examination of ValuJet Flight 592’s Electronic Witness

Episode 37

The cockpit voice recorder is called the “electronic witness” by crash investigators. In this episode, John and Greg walk through the CVR recovered during the investigation of ValuJet Flight 592 that crashed in the Everglades.

The CVR captures conversations. It also documents ambient noises that offer clues, especially when aligned with information from the flight data recorder.

Greg and John offer insight into what was learned from the CVR. Routine discussions quickly changed with the call of “fire” at 14:10. The recording shows rapid-fire issues unfolding. It chillingly shows that all on board seem to have succumbed to smoke asphyxiation before the plane crashed.

This second-by-second analysis expands on Episode 30 addressing listener questions and interest in detailed CVR analysis.

Photo: NTSB photo of recovered Flight Safety Recorder