When we think of dash cams, we typically picture them mounted on car windshields, silently capturing the ebb and flow of traffic. However, a small but adventurous group of enthusiasts is taking these devices to new heights—quite literally.
In this blog, we dive into the world of dash cams in the cockpit, exploring the unique perspective of a passionate aviator (M) who has merged his love for flying with his expertise in dash cam technology. Join us as we soar through the challenges, benefits, and sheer excitement of installing and using dash cams in aircraft, offering a bird's-eye view of this innovative application that's pushing the boundaries of what these devices can do.
VIOFO: Could you explain the primary reasons for installing dash cameras in airplanes?
M: The video is excellent for reviewing your flights, seeing where you could improve and God forbid it'll be an important source for FAA/ NTSB and yourself to review for analysis of the accident. I also usually record my audio with a digital recorder and sink to video so I have ATC. Great for YouTube videos also.
VIOFO: What specific areas of the aircraft are monitored by these dash cameras?
M: The primary is mounted at the very top of the wind screen for a straight forward centered view. I recently mounted another A119 MINI 2 on the back seat side window for a downward view of the ground.
I will probably eventually mount the A229 Plus with the 3 camera system in my plane which will be great. Forward view, pilot's face view, and rear or side mount.
VIOFO: How do dash cameras in airplanes improve safety and security for passengers and crew?
M: It makes you a better pilot because you can review your flight and look for mistakes etc... I do it every trip and also see something I missed. Great safety advantage.
VIOFO: What are the challenges involved in installing dash cameras on airplanes compared to other vehicles?
M: In most cases, all airplanes have a 12 volt cigarette lighter type receptacle just like a car. Some of the more advanced aircraft have 24 volt systems which might be a problem. One thing that gopro's and viofo and a lot of cams suffer from is rolling shutter effect when videoing through the prop. At certain speeds the shutter frame rate and prop speed seem to cause this. A neutral density filter is suppose to helps but doesn't fix the issue for me.
Also, I have had issues with the GPS sticking properly to the plastic wind screens on aircraft. I've found so far, a small amount of silicon may be better but the sticky material 3M needed to be removed first.
VIOFO: How do privacy regulations and concerns affect the use of dash cameras in commercial aircraft?
M: No issues, no rules against it. In fact, it can be very helpful in accident investigation and reviewing your own flights.
VIOFO: Can you share any incidents where dash camera footage was crucial in investigating or resolving a situation on an airplane?
M: Yes, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQUS-6SBZzM watch the 1st 2 minutes as there were video camera's running and recovered by the NTSB which will show the accident and cause. The NTSB has them in their possession and will probably not release the video but I'm told the video camera's survived in the crash.
Also excellent where an emergency landing was recorded. I can share plenty of links for that if you need them.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQUS-6SBZzM This is an old one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEMlny_ExuU
Many, many more on Youtube.
VIOFO: What measures are taken to ensure the reliability and continuous operation of dash cameras on flights?
M: It's operating like in a car so when I turn the ignition (master switch on airplane) the camera reports verbally that it's recording. It's 100% reliable. It's important that you don't have to turn it on or off as it's important for safety that the camera doesn't require any interaction while in flight.
VIOFO: For those who also want to install dash cams on airplanes, do you have any experience or precautions to share with them?
M: Yes, make sure it can withstand very high heat exposure like the viofo's. A GoPro will overheat within minutes with the sun coming into the wind screen.
VIOFO: How do you see the future of dash camera technology evolving in the aviation industry?
M: Huge, I highly recommend it and would be happy to help advise you on my experience as I have a good bit of experience with the Viofo dashcam in my airplane. Most people use the Gopro which has an advantage on quality but have to be manually turned on and off and overheat easily.
As we conclude our journey through the skies of dash cam innovation, it's clear that the aviation industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution. The insights shared by our passionate aviator, M, highlight the immense potential and current challenges of integrating dash cams into aircraft. From enhancing pilot performance to providing crucial evidence in investigations, these devices are proving to be invaluable tools in the cockpit.
Looking ahead, the future of dash cams in aviation seems boundless. As manufacturers like us VIOFO continue to innovate and adapt their technology to meet the unique demands of aviation, we may soon see dash cams become as common in planes as they are in cars.