What is a requirement for an airplane with a flight data recorder installed?

The requirement that an airplane with a flight data recorder installed must be set up to allow for preflight checking of data recording is crucial for maintaining safety and operational integrity. This ensures that the recording system is functioning properly before the aircraft takes off. Preflight checks prevent potential issues during flight where critical data may not be captured due to a malfunction, which is particularly important in the event of an incident.

Having the ability to check the data recording prior to flight allows maintenance personnel to verify that the recorder is operational, helping to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintaining the integrity of flight information. This practice aligns with safety protocols designed to enhance the reliability of data collected during flights.

The other options, while related to aspects of operational safety or visibility, do not focus directly on the essential requirement of confirming data recording functionality prior to flight.