A method for preserving information from an airborne aircraft (10) includes receiving an activation signal, and in response thereto, establishing a call from the aircraft (10) to a ground support facility (210) over a wireless telecommunications network (200). Sounds within the aircraft (10) are monitored, and an audio signal reflecting the same is generated. Flight data from the aircraft (10) is obtained and encoded. The audio signal and encoded flight data are multiplexed to generate a combined output signal (300) which is transmitted via the call from the aircraft (10) to the ground support facility (210).