Aerospace Forensics Laboratory

The Aerospace Forensics Lab, operated by the Applied Aviation Sciences Department, allows viewing and tactile inspection of the wreckage while practicing the science of aircraft accident investigation.

The lab, formerly known as the Aircraft Crash Lab, is located near the Embry-Riddle campus, just south of the John Mica Engineering and Aerospace Innovation Complex (MicaPlex) and Daytona Beach International Airport.  

Potential research topics include experiential learning techniques, forensic imaging, metallurgical failure analyses, software uses for accident scene diagrams, power plant system analysis, flight instrument impact capture marks and the pedagogy of wreckage layouts to maximize student learning.

Equipment

• This lab has several fixed- and rotor-wing aircraft that were all involved in actual crashes.
• Learners at the lab use state-of-the-art documentation equipment, including the FARO Focus S70 laser scanner.