What is the function of the cockpit voice recorder?

The cockpit voice recorder plays a crucial role in aviation safety by capturing voice and radio communications during flight. This device records the conversations between pilots and any communications with air traffic control, as well as ambient sounds within the cockpit. In the event of an incident or accident, investigators rely on the information stored in the cockpit voice recorder to reconstruct events leading up to the situation, allowing them to understand the dynamics of the flight and enhance safety measures.

The function of the cockpit voice recorder is distinct from the storage of flight data, which is typically the role of flight data recorders. While monitoring pilot performance can be valuable, it is not the primary function of the cockpit voice recorder. Similarly, displaying maintenance alerts pertains to aircraft systems management, which is outside the scope of what the cockpit voice recorder is designed to do. By understanding these distinctions, it's clear why capturing voice and radio communications is the correct answer in the context of the cockpit voice recorder's role in aviation.