In an ongoing effort to address the overlap between modern 5G rollout and established aviation frequency use and technology, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin to equipment and aircraft manufacturers, operators and pilots. The Aircraft Electronics Association encourages member shops to share the SAIB with their customer base. The AEA has been participating in an industry coalition to evaluate the safety concerns and find a reasonable resolution to the concerns.

In part, the SAIB states: "This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin informs aircraft manufacturers, radio altimeter manufacturers, operators, and pilots of the planned deployment of wireless broadband networks in the 3700-3980 MHz bands, which is scheduled to begin on Dec. 5, 2021, in the 3700-3800 MHz bands. This SAIB recommends that radio altimeter manufacturers, aircraft manufacturers, and operators voluntarily provide to federal authorities specific information related to altimeter design and functionality, specifics on deployment and usage of radio altimeters in aircraft, and that they test and assess their equipment in conjunction with federal authorities. Results from that testing and assessment should be reported to the appropriate civil aviation authorities and spectrum regulators. The FAA is currently collaborating with the Federal Communications Commission and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to assess the need for mitigation beyond the recommended action in this SAIB." More...

There are sayings pilots use on occasion – usually when they find themselves in an emergency situation. One favorite observes, “The only time you have too much fuel is when the aircraft is on fire.” Similarly, the only time you have too little time is when the engine quits – for whatever reason.

But today’s technology offers a well-designed piece of automation that can ease the pilot’s mental load and, with the right accessory, fly the airplane to the pilot’s choice of landing fields. Dubbed “Smart Glide” by Garmin, this upgrade literally provides airport options and more at the push of a button. More...

Applications are now being accepted for AEA members interested in running for a position on the AEA board of directors. To apply, your company must be an AEA member in good standing, and you must complete an application form by Dec. 17, 2021.

The applications are reviewed by the AEA Trusteeship Committee, which assembles a final slate of nominees for a vote before the full membership. The slate is assembled based on applicant experience, expertise, and areas of need for the AEA board.

A director’s term is for three years, and directors are expected to attend the AEA International Convention & Trade Show (where the annual spring board meeting is convened), as well as the annual fall board meeting. During the year, directors may be asked to volunteer time to serve on committees or complete special projects.

Member voting takes place via the AEA website in January and the winners of the election will be notified in early 2022. More...

Airline passengers enjoy them; service providers profit from them; evermore business-turbine aircraft offer them. “Them” in this case are in-flight entertainment options available on an ever-expanding range of aircraft commonly used as business aircraft by their owners and operators. And much of the expansion involves systems small and light enough to go into even high-end piston-powered aircraft.

Some weigh little more than a VHF nav/comm unit the pilots use almost constantly when making cross-country flights. You can argue that credit for the availability of these systems should at least partly go to the companies that pioneered a piece of in-flight kit enjoying a similar level of growth and popularity.

In-flight connectivity systems employ various in-flight connectivity options geared to deliver practically everything available on a home-theater system. IFE systems bring the home theater and many of its trappings to an increasing number of business aircraft. Movies? Check. Sports? Check again. News? Yep, along with documentaries and all the rest of the programming available with even a modest cable-based home-theater system. More...

The avionics industry will gather again in Cologne, Germany, for regulatory and technical training from leading avionics, instrument and test equipment manufacturers. Learn about new products, their application, certification and installation. Attendees at the Hyatt Regency Cologne will have the opportunity to Connect with their regional sales and product support representatives.

From selling to installation, configuration and certification testing, the AEA Connect Conferences are where aviation's technology experts gather to answer your questions. See the complete schedule for more information, a list of exhibiting companies, along with a list of major OEMs and their technical training topics. More...

Attention avionics technicians! How well do you think you know your avionics inside and out? New and old? Then put your knowledge to work.

What is the product make and model shown in this image?

Southeast Aerospace will award a $100 Visa gift card to a random winner from among the correct entries submitted, and the winner will be announced in the next edition of AEA Wired.

In addition, all correct answers from 2021 will be entered to win a random drawing for a $500 Visa gift card at the end of the year, also from Southeast Aerospace. Email your answer...

After months of long nights and weekends, Eric Stuck, founder and president of Ionic Air Care, excitedly unveiled his company’s first product at the Aircraft Electronics Association’s International Convention & Trade Show in June. While he may have seemed reserved on stage, Stuck is all heart and hustle behind the scenes.

With a tremendous amount of research and support from consulting engineers and other experts, he designed his duct-mounted i7000A ionization system from the ground up to meet aircraft performance standards. The dual-polar ion system generates positively and negatively charged ions that help “clean” cabin air. More...

As readers of Avionics News magazine are well aware, the avionics business is all about technology. We sell and service a variety of technological wonders that allow pilots to navigate, communicate, avoid weather, avoid other aircraft, and much more. Pilots and passengers rely on avionics for safe flight. Everyone we know relies on technology to a great extent. Some have the insight to combine technologies for a truly awesome experience.

Timothy Clark, who prefers to be called Brother Timothy, has been blind since birth. He has accomplished much in his life. He is an amateur radio operator, a musician, and an internet blogger. Clark always wanted to fly an airplane, and he had the insight and inspiration to combine consumer electronics with avionics to make his wish come true. More...

Charlie Schneider likes to solve problems for pilots, and he wondered why he was driving with a head-up display in his BMW when one wasn’t available for his Cirrus. If you put a pilot-related problem in front of him, know this: Something is going to happen. Schneider, the owner of MyGoFlight, organized a team of engineers to create a HUD for the pilots who don’t fly Falcon or Gulfstream or Boeing jets. He is an instrument-rated pilot who flies for business and pleasure, and he enjoys coming up with technology to make flying simpler and safer.

Now, after three years of research and development and certification work with the Federal Aviation Administration, Schneider’s MyGoFlight SkyDisplay HUD for general aviation aircraft is on the market. It is designed for use in piston, turboprop and light jet aircraft, and this includes many Cirrus, Cessna, Piper, Embraer, Mooney, TBM, Beechcraft, Pilatus and Air Tractor aircraft. The product made its debut at the AEA Convention after receiving an AML STC from the FAA for the aircraft interface device component of the HUD system, initially for the Cirrus SR22. Other models of general aviation aircraft will be added as they are approved based on work by FAA designated engineering representatives. More...

People think air-to-ground messaging is a relatively new thing. Well, it’s not. Pilots used skywriting to share messages with the terrestrials back in the early 1900s. But as air travel grew in popularity, so did the need to share real-time information. Air-to-ground communications capabilities quickly evolved through light guns, VHF radios, air phones, satellite links, and finally into today’s totally connected aircraft.

Of course, the methodology used to connect passengers to the ground isn’t the only thing that’s changed. Today’s definition of connectivity is different than it was just five years ago. When you talk connectivity today, it’s not just about email to the cabin. It’s much bigger. More...

Question: Is there an “industry best practice” to model a repair station’s calibrated tool program after?

Answer: Yes, a simple internet search for “ISO 9001 Control of Calibrated Equipment procedure” will result in a number of available downloads. AEA members are encouraged to particularly review the checklists and forms offered by Endeavour Technical Limited, Covent Garden, London. More...

If you are not quite ready to take the AET test, AEA has you covered.

Avotek, an AEA member and training partner, offers online courses to help avionics technicians prepare for the AET exam and is offering a member discount of 40% off.

The Fundamentals of Aircraft Electronics Part I - Electricity and Electronics and The Fundamentals of Aircraft Electronics Part II - Maintenance Practices and Aircraft Fundamentals are the essential guides to aircraft electronics associated with AET certification.

To access the coupon codes, you will need to be logged in to the AEA website. AEA members get 40% off each course with the coupon codes. More...

The AEA’s online training platform called AERO, short for the Aerospace Education Resource Online system, allows users to train at their own pace and operates like a personal learning management system. More than a dozen new courses that took place at this year's AEA Convention in Dallas are now available, including OEM technical sessions, Pitot-Static and Transponder Certification training, Electrical Load Analysis, and Marketing Beyond the Runway. Convention attendees may access the sessions recorded at AEA Dallas for free, and those AEA members who could not attend the convention may purchase them.

Training content is exclusive to AEA members at aea.net/aero with a member login and password. AEA AERO will continue to add and update content to help members accomplish their training goals. Members with questions about the new AERO online training system may contact Aaron Ward directly at aaronw@aea.net. More...

The Aircraft Electronics Association Educational Foundation will award more than 20 scholarships for the 2022-23 school year to students pursuing a career in avionics or aircraft maintenance, as well as students from AEA member companies.

Since its inception, the AEA scholarship program has awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships. The deadline to submit a scholarship application is April 1, 2022. Scholarship applications are available at aea.net/scholarship.

Registration has opened for the 65th annual AEA International Convention & Trade Show, the largest gathering of general aviation avionics manufacturers, distributors and government-certified repair stations in the world. It is the platform of choice for the introduction of new avionics products and services coming to market in 2022. The event will take place at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, March 28-31, 2022.

Attendees must register by Dec. 31, 2021, to receive the early-bird discount price of $695 (AEA member rate) for a full convention registration. The early-bird promotion offers a $180 per person savings off the on-site registration fee. More...

A direct link to make hotel reservations in the official room block at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside for the 2022 AEA Convention is available at aea.net/convention.

The AEA encourages all attendees and exhibitors to secure their hotel rooms soon, as the NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four will take place in New Orleans immediately following the conclusion of the AEA Convention. Plan ahead and secure your hotel accommodations well in advance of the show. More...

Published annually by the Aircraft Electronics Association, the 2021-22 edition of the AEA Pilot's Guide was recently unveiled. This year marks the 19th annual edition of the AEA Pilot's Guide, a consumer's directory loaded with educational articles, timely information and data about the ever-changing world of avionics technologies. The publication helps pilots and aircraft owners make better buying decisions and locate nearly 1,300 AEA member companies in more than 40 countries, including government-certified repair stations specializing in maintenance, repair and installation of avionics and electronic systems in general aviation aircraft. It also includes the manufacturers and distributors of these products, as well as technical schools and universities, engineers and consultants for the industry.

Individuals residing in the United States may request a free copy of the AEA Pilot's Guide at aeapilotsguide.net/request.asp while supplies last. More...

Based in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, SKYTRAC Systems has been a full-service data-driven solutions provider for private, business, commercial, and military aviation since 1986. Today, its systems are certified on more than 900 airframes with over 7,500 users around the globe. From performance trending and operations reporting to real-time asset tracking and situational awareness – SKYTRAC offers a one-stop response to meeting the needs of its customers.

Company executive Ray Larkin has the latest scoop on what’s next for SKYTRAC in this episode of AEA Amplified, sponsored by Genesys Aerosystems, a Moog Company. Listen...

Basic Wiring & Avionics Installation (SOLD-OUT)

This course is designed for certificated repairmen, new avionics technicians, aviation maintenance technicians and recent graduates interested in improving or acquiring the skills necessary to perform avionics installations. This three-day seminar employs in-depth theory and hands-on lab exercises to immerse the attendee in the best practices used to plan, manage, and install a general aviation avionics panel.

Basic Pitot-Static & Transponder Theory, Testing & Troubleshooting (SOLD-OUT)

This course is designed for entry-level avionics technicians or those looking for basic training on pitot-static and aircraft transponder systems. This two-day course covers the history and theory of operation of pitot-static instruments and transponders, as well as system setup, hands-on testing, and the troubleshooting skills necessary to perform FAR 91.411 and 91.413 checks.

Certified Repair Station Training (13 seats remain)

This weeklong course provides an interactive environment to learn, understand and implement the regulations that govern repair station design and operations. Current quality managers, technicians, mechanics, and repairmen who are involved in the management of a repair station as well as individuals looking to establish a 14 CFR Part 145 repair station should attend.

Primary Flight Display Installation & Configuration (15 seats remain)

Technicians will learn how to plan, install, interface, configure and check out an installation of a primary flight display, EHSI and GPS/Nav/Com consisting of dual Garmin GI 275, a Garmin GTN 650 touchscreen, and a Garmin GTX 345 transponder. Designed for technicians who have experience with avionics installation practices and are looking for more training integrating common general aviation installations.

Avionics Testing Fundamentals (15 seats remain)

This course is designed for technicians who have experience with basic avionics installation practice, familiar with basic soldering skills and are looking for experience in LRU bench testing and avionics troubleshooting. Bench testing nav, VHF comm and transponders will be the focus of study. Technicians will fabricate a general-purpose test panel that they will use in the course. Attendees will keep their fabricated test panel upon course completion.

Transponder Service Training (14 seats remain)

This course is designed for technicians who have experience with basic avionics installation practice and are looking for experience in transponder LRU bench testing, transponder flight line testing and aircraft troubleshooting. ADS-B transponders systems will be the focus of study. Attendees will keep their fabricated wire harness upon course completion.

Nav/Comm Equipment Service Training (13 seats remain)

This course is designed for technicians who have experience with basic avionics installation practice and are looking for experience in avionics flight line testing, LRU bench testing and aircraft troubleshooting. VOR, localizer, glideslope, marker beacon and VHF comms will be the focus of study.

Pitot-Static, Transponder, and ADS-B: Testing & Inspection (16 seats remain)

Attendees will learn the proper methods for conducting pitot-static and transponder tests and inspections. This full-day course offers hands-on training, including a regulatory review and an explanation of the proper administrative procedures for completing these critical certifications. With so many questions surrounding ADS-B, this course will provide the answers and what you need to know.

Avionics Installation for Experimental Aircraft (13 seats remain)

This course is targeted for the homebuilder or avionics technician who wants to learn about performing an avionics installation in an experimental aircraft. The class focuses on the Garmin G3X Touch system, and a simplified example harness is constructed as part of the hands-on portion of the class. While the G3X Touch system is the primary focus, the wiring principles and general guidance can be applied to any experimental avionics system. From the do-it-yourselfer to the avionics shop looking to carve a niche, this class has something for everyone.

For individuals interested in pursuing professional opportunities in the avionics industry, the job listings page on the AEA website is your one-stop resource. The AEA jobs board provides informational links on how to get AET certified, an avionics technician job summary and wage review, along with scholarship opportunities within the industry. Search the AEA's job listings and see what's on your horizon. Free resume posting is available. Are you up to the challenge? More...

Is your business hiring? The AEA jobs board makes it easier for AEA members to find their next avionics technician, quality manager, inspector, sales representative or engineer.

AEA members may submit a free job posting after entering their username and password at AEA.net/Jobs. Member companies that optionally choose to upgrade their job posting for a premium will have preferred online placement and also will be published in the next edition of Avionics News. For more information about premium job listings, contact Rachel Hill, AEA advertising executive, at rachelh@aea.net.