In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a system for collecting aviation flight cycle data comprising a radio frequency (RF) tag configured to read sensor information from a sensor, the RF tag comprising (i) an RF and analog block for receiving and transmitting an RF signal, (ii) a data processing and controller block for digital information processing, and (iii) a memory store, wherein the RF tag is at least in part powered by an external RF signal received by the RF and analog block; and a sensor for generating sensor information indicative of an airborne flight cycle parameter, wherein the RF tag periodically collects the sensor information generated by the sensor and stores the sensor information in the memory store.