The FAA has fixed the compliance dates for 25-hour cockpit voice recorders. Information for Operators bulletin 26013 was signed on 10 August 2026 by Flight Standards Service. Aviation International News flagged the bulletin on 21 August 2026. It applies to aircraft operated under Parts 91, 125 and 135.
Two dates now govern the requirement. New-build aircraft with a maximum certificated take-off weight of 27,000 kg or more must carry a 25-hour CVR from 2 February 2027. Lighter new-build aircraft, at 26,999 kg or below, get until 2 February 2029. Both thresholds cover airframes with 29 or fewer passenger seats. The rule applies to types currently required to carry a CVR.
The heavier tier covers the large-cabin fleet. Bombardier Global 7500 and 8000, Gulfstream G700 and G800, and Dassault Falcon 8X and 10X all exceed the 27-tonne threshold. Bombardier Challenger 3500 and Embraer Praetor 600E fall inside the lighter tier.
The FAA final rule was published on 2 February 2026 under docket 2026-02110. Section 366 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 authorises the change. The recorder must meet Technical Standard Order TSO-C123c or later. The previous minimum was two hours of audio.
Owners with a new delivery due after either date should confirm the CVR fitment with the OEM. The InFO is guidance, but the underlying rule is enforceable without further FAA action. OEMs typically build to the applicable production standard on the airframe's certification date, so buyers taking delivery from 2027 should expect the 25-hour unit as standard. Existing Part 91 and Part 135 aircraft are not required to retrofit. A separate mandate for existing Part 121 airline aircraft takes effect on 16 May 2030 and is self-enacting under the 2024 statute.
Source: FAA InFO 26013, Flight Standards Service, 10 August 2026; Federal Register 2026-02110, 2 February 2026; Aviation International News, 21 August 2026.