scope:

Introduction

The Aircraft Information Program (AIP) supports mishap investigations, Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA), Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM), Aircraft and Engine Structural Integrity Programs (ASIP/ENSIP), aircraft development programs and training. Its primary goal is to balance information needs with program resources and operational considerations. This handbook provides guidance in selecting the appropriate recording parameters and functional requirements for information collection systems.

Mishap investigations are relatively straightforward processes where causes and contributing factors are determined and used to produce a list of recommendations that should prevent future mishaps. However, many investigations are inconclusive due to lack of evidence to support mishap scenarios. This allows insidious conditions to persist and cause future mishaps.