AEA members should plan to attend an exclusive members-only webinar for an informative and educational session in which we will review the MOSAIC NPRM that proposes to amend nine separate, and not always related, regulations. This two-hour session will provide an overview of the FAA’s proposal and a thorough discussion on elements affecting the avionics industry. Sign up to participate with your AEA member login and password and email questions you would like to have answered in advance. Register Now...

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.

Here's a brief sampling of some of the outstanding opportunities currently listed:

After nearly 15 years of helping to engineer, test and certify systems for legacy business jets, Colorado-based Peregrine has earned its own set of wings from the Federal Aviation Administration. In August, the FAA granted Peregrine organization designation authorization, allowing the company to streamline and expedite engineering approvals for its customers.

“As an ODA, Peregrine acts as a proxy to the FAA certification branch to scrutinize and approve STCs on behalf of the FAA,” said David Rankin, founder and ODA administrator of Peregrine. “The authorization gives us the capability to carry out responsibilities that are otherwise accomplished directly by the FAA.”

Adding another ODA to the network is big news in an industry where waiting for FAA approvals can be costly in time, money and market share. ODAs help ease the FAA’s heavy workload and can trim supplemental type certification time significantly. More...

Registration has opened for the 67th annual AEA International Convention & Trade Show, the largest gathering of aviation electronics manufacturers, distributors and approved maintenance organizations in the world. It is the platform of choice for the introduction of new avionics products and services coming to market in 2024. The event will take place March 19-22, 2024, at Marriott's Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.

Attendees must register by Dec. 31, 2023, to receive the early-bird discount price of $695 (AEA member rate) for a full convention registration. The early-bird promotion offers a $230 per person savings off the on-site registration fee. The attendee full registration package includes: four days of technical training sessions; exhibit hall entrance for two full days with lunch; and networking with manufacturers and distributors. Register for the biggest training week of the year in the avionics industry. More...

Ric Peri, AEA vice president of government and industry affairs, recently led a session on safety management systems at the annual Maintenance Management Team meeting in Cologne, Germany. The MMT meeting is where the FAA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, Transport Canada Civil Aviation, and Brazil’s Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC) gather to coordinate bilateral and multilateral activities.

As part of the discussion, Peri reviewed current SMS requirements for repair stations from the civil aviation authorities and noted that, effective Dec. 2, 2024, all EASA Part-145 approved maintenance organizations (those with certificates directly from EASA, not via a bilateral) must have implemented an SMS program. While the FAA has foregone requiring SMS for repair stations, a future revision to the Maintenance Annex Guidance for the FAA-EASA bilateral will extend the requirement to U.S. repair stations with EASA approval. More...

No matter how you look at it, any company celebrating its 76th anniversary is doing something right. And when said company is in the topsy-turvy business aviation industry, it’s doubly worth celebrating.

In many cases, how a company starts greatly impacts its long-term success. For example, the West Star Aviation we are celebrating today is the result of the joining of two companies. Those two companies each dealt with different challenges, and that combined experience has led to the company’s longevity. More...

Brad Hayden started Robotic Skies from scratch nearly a decade ago and has created a robust service center network of 250 Part 145 repair stations around the world to service commercial drones.

The network has a large footprint in the United States, western Canada, Europe and additional shops in South America, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand. Robotic Skies is a single point of contact that can build out a custom maintenance program for the manufacturer or operator of uncrewed aircraft systems and train its network of shops to service specific models of UAS. The network provides not only technical expertise but also regulatory know-how while meeting all of the Federal Aviation Administration’s stringent requirements for Part 145 repair stations. More...

On Nov. 30, the FAA announced it is proposing to extend the cockpit voice-recording requirement to 25 hours for all newly manufactured aircraft. “This rule will give us substantially more data to identify the causes of incidents and help prevent them in the future,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker.

The FAA pledged to take action on the issue following the Safety Summit in March 2023 during which more than 200 safety leaders met to discuss ways to enhance flight safety. This rule would align with regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organization and European Union Aviation Safety Agency. Current FAA regulations require voice recorders to retain only two hours of data. The proposed rule was scheduled to publish in the Federal Register Dec. 4, and the public will have 60 days to comment on the proposal. More...

If you cannot attend the AEA members-only webinar about MOSAIC that is avionics-centric, the FAA will host a maintenance-centric webinar titled "Understanding the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification" on Thursday, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m. Eastern time. Learn more about how the proposed changes to the light-sport aircraft regulations may affect the operations and maintenance of these aircraft. Register Now...

Applications are now open for AEA members interested in running for a position on the board of directors. To apply, your company must be an AEA member in good standing, and you must complete an application form by Dec. 15, 2023.

To be considered for a position on the slate of nominees, AEA members must submit an application to the AEA president and chief executive officer. The applications are reviewed by the trusteeship committee, which then assembles a final slate of nominees for a vote before the full membership. The slate is assembled based on certain needs or areas of expertise that may be needed on the new board. Member voting takes place via the AEA website in January, and the winners of the election will be notified in early 2024. More...

Juggling is, perhaps, the most apt summation of how avionics repair stations have dealt with the disparate challenges the economy has tossed to them over the past few years. The last five years have been among the most complex in the industry’s history, according to Mike Adamson, AEA president and chief executive officer. “We’ve had everything from the ADS-B mandate to COVID shutdowns, chip shortages, supply chain issues and more,” he said.

Among these challenges, the workforce demand for and supply of experienced technicians has been the bowling ball in the rotation. But the latest challenge in the rotation is the cluster bomb of inflation, the rising overhead costs of keeping the hangar door open, rent, insurance, and the utilities that provide a comfortable, well-lit workplace. As a result, shop rates increased nationwide, the America’s sunrise and sunset coasts reporting the largest increases. More...

The Federal Aviation Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency continue their progress to advanced air mobility (AAM or IAM – innovative air mobility, in EASA parlance) implementation, with both agencies recently releasing proposals for pilot certification and operational rules. The agencies are taking widely different paths, including their terminology for the industry and aircraft, and their approaches to aircraft certification.

With manufacturers anticipating aircraft certification in the next year or so and commercial operations to begin shortly thereafter, which region is best prepared for the industry’s launch? Will the two agencies align more closely or continue down different roads? More...

The annual Avionics Training Excellence Award recognizes AEA members for their total commitment to training. Pilots and aircraft owners may not be aware of the avionics industry’s dedication to technician training. For decades, the AEA has led the way with comprehensive programs to cover everything from the basics to advanced avionics instruction. A total commitment to training by AEA member companies and the recognition of the Avionics Training Excellence Award allow members to demonstrate their dedication to professional career development and assure their customers of a higher level of service.

To qualify, an AEA member company must submit a completed ATE Award application and provide proof of participation in an AEA-recognized training event for every employed technician from January to December of the award year. Applications for the 2023 award are due Dec. 31, 2023. More...

The AEA Educational Foundation will award multiple scholarships for the 2024-25 school year to students pursuing a career in aviation electronics 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, 2024. More...

Honeywell’s 32nd annual Global Business Aviation Outlook forecasts up to 8,500 new business jet deliveries worth $278 billion from 2024 to 2033. Meanwhile, fleet expansion plans have increased for the third consecutive year, and operators show a greater interest in reducing carbon emissions.

Get the report’s key findings from Javier Jimenez Serrano, strategy and market research manager at Honeywell Aerospace, in this episode of AEA Amplified. Listen Now...

The AEA recently announced a new membership health insurance benefit for members in the United States that can help keep you, your family, and even your business cost-effectively covered and healthy. The association has partnered with LIG Solutions to be able to offer exclusive health insurance and related coverage options, including major medical, short-term health plans, vision and dental plans, critical care coverage, life, and several different supplemental health options.

If you are a business owner looking for coverage options for your employees, there are solutions throughout the year with the LIG HRA group program. Call the LIG team at 800-306-0163 or visit LIGmembers.com/AEA to discuss coverage options for you, your family and business. More...

Published annually, the 2023-24 edition of the AEA Pilot’s Guide is available upon request.

This year marks the 21st annual edition of the publication, 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 approved maintenance organizations specializing in maintenance, repair and installation of avionics equipment in general aviation aircraft. It also includes the manufacturers and distributors of these products, as well as technical schools and universities, delegated engineering firms, and consultants for the industry. Individuals residing in the United States may request a free copy while supplies last. Get the Guide...

Certified Repair Station Training (sold-out)

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 plan to attend. Learn More...

AET Prep Course and Exam (6 seats remain)

The Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Prep Course is a hybrid class for aviation technicians who want to earn their NCATT AET certification. Students who register in advance will have access to online modules to self-study the AET coursework before attending the live class at AEA. The online modules take approximately two weeks to complete. Students will attend a one-day review session in person and take the AET certification exam at AEA headquarters in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. ($175 value for exam is included in your course registration.) Register Now...

Basic Wiring and 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. Learn More...

AVX-10K and IFR6000/4000 Operations Training (15 seats remain)

This course is designed to provide maintenance personnel with the knowledge and skills required to operate and configure IFR6000 and IFR4000 to verify and maintain transponder, UAT, TCAS, DME, ILS, VOR, Comms and ELT. Plus a complete review of all features and benefits of the AVX-10K Flight Line Test Set with emphasis on testing transponder (Mode S and ADS-B In/Out), UAT, TCAS and DME. Register Now...

Basic Pitot-Static & Transponder Theory, Testing & Troubleshooting (11 seats remain)

This course is designed for entry-level avionics technicians or those looking for basic training on pitot-static and aircraft transponder systems. The 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. Register Now...

Primary Flight Display Installation & Configuration (8 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. Register Now...

Avionics Testing Fundamentals (10 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 trouble shooting. Bench testing Nav, VHF Com 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 at course completion. Register Now...

Transponder Service Training (12 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 at course completion. Register Now...

Nav/Comm Equipment Service Training (11 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. Register Now...

Pitot-Static, Transponder, RVSM, and ADS-B: Testing & Inspection (10 seats remain)

Attendees will learn the proper methods for conducting pitot-static and transponder tests and inspections. This full-day course offers a regulatory review and an explanation of the proper administrative procedures for completing these critical certifications. Preparing and performing RVSM inspection tasks. ADS-B session covering installation, wiring and return to service review. Register Now...

ADS-B Configuration, Testing and Troubleshooting (15 seats remain)

This course is designed for currently employed repair station personnel and installers of ADS-B systems. Approximately 4.8% of all general aviation ADS-B installations are non-compliant based on the FAA’s ADS-B Performance Monitoring System. This course focuses on the proper configuration and testing of ADS-B installations to ensure your installation meets the performance requirements and regulations. Also included are troubleshooting tips and tricks that will help you resolve the common problems found in ADS-B installations. Register Now...

Avionics Installation for Experimental Aircraft (12 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. Register Now...

Aircraft Instrument Systems (15 seats remain)

This course is designed for avionics technicians or apprentices who want to learn more about aircraft instrument systems and better understand their operation, installation considerations, and maintenance to become more-effective troubleshooters. From simple mechanical gauges to complex electrical and electronic systems, this course covers nearly every instrument system in an aircraft. Register Now...

Digital Databus Theory and Analysis (13 seats remain)

As today’s modern airplanes become much more technologically advanced, so must the professionals who maintain them. The advanced avionics and instrumentation systems used in these aircraft rely on various forms of digital databus communication. Understanding digital databus theory is becoming more and more important for avionics technicians, and even A&P mechanics, to effectively test and troubleshoot these highly advanced aircraft systems. Register Now...

The sky is not the limit in aerospace. If you are ready to reach a higher altitude, visit this one-stop resource that was built by industry professionals and powered by the AEA. The site offers a spotlight on career paths in aviation and includes links to jobs, scholarships, aviation schools, veterans’ resources, information for educators, salary data and more. From the hangar floor to low-earth orbit, opportunities abound. 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.

Founded in 1957, the Aircraft Electronics Association represents nearly 1,300 member companies in more than 40 countries, including approved maintenance organizations specializing in maintenance, repair and installation of aircraft electronics systems in general aviation aircraft. The AEA membership also includes manufacturers of aircraft electronics equipment, instrument repair facilities, instrument manufacturers, airframe manufacturers, test equipment manufacturers, major distributors, engineers and educational institutions.