How long are operational logs typically kept on board?

Operational logs are typically kept on board for a duration of 6 months. This retention period allows for a sufficient time frame to review operational performance and address any potential issues that may arise during that time. Keeping the logs for 6 months strikes a balance between maintaining essential records for accountability and operational analysis while preventing the excessive accumulation of outdated data which might not be relevant for current operational assessments.

This duration supports regulatory requirements and operational best practices, ensuring that key operational data is available for review when conducting maintenance, troubleshooting, and audits. In the context of aviation and other related fields, operational logs serve as vital records that may be referenced for monitoring safety, performance, and compliance with procedures.

In contrast, a shorter retention period of 3 months may not provide enough data for thorough analysis and trend identification, while a longer retention period, such as 1 year or 2 years, could lead to cluttering of records that may not be necessary for ongoing operations. Thus, 6 months is the mandated and practical choice for maintaining operational logs.