Embodiments provide an aircraft video data recorder (VDR) system including a nonvolatile digital memory array, a signal generating device adapted to generate a data signal representing a flight condition of the aircraft, at least one IP encoder for converting the data signal to an IP format signal including data formatted in IP format, an interface for introducing the IP format signal to the memory array, and a hardened housing adapted to preserve from damage in the event of an aircraft crash the digital memory array.