<P> The data recorded by the FDR are used for accident and incident investigation . Due to their importance in investigating accidents , these ICAO - regulated devices are carefully engineered and constructed to withstand the force of a high speed impact and the heat of an intense fire . Contrary to the popular term `` black box '' , the exterior of the FDR is coated with heat - resistant bright orange paint for high visibility in wreckage , and the unit is usually mounted in the aircraft 's tail section , where it is more likely to survive a severe crash . Following an accident , the recovery of the FDR is usually a high priority for the investigating body , as analysis of the recorded parameters can often detect and identify causes or contributing factors . </P>
where is the black box located on an airplane
usually mounted in the aircraft 's tail section