The United States Congress recently passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 (H.R. 3935), and the bill was signed by President Joe Biden before the May 17 deadline. The measure was passed by the House of Representatives on May 15 with bipartisan support in a 387-26 vote. On May 9, the Senate overwhelmingly approved the bill, 88-4. The legislation reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration for five years.

H.R. 3935 was first introduced in the House last year by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Garret Graves (R-LA) and Aviation Subcommittee Ranking Member Steve Cohen (D-TN). According to a statement issued by the House T&I Committee upon final passage, "America’s aviation system would not be where it is today without a healthy GA sector, and in fact, most of all aviation professionals these days, including pilots and mechanics, get their start in GA. This bill recognizes that the success of the United States aviation system is built upon a strong GA foundation and includes the first-ever general aviation title to secure our aviation industry’s long-term success." More...

May 24 is the birthday of Charles Taylor, the first aviation mechanic who built the aircraft engine used by the Wright brothers. Each year on Taylor's birthday, the industry recognizes National Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, where individuals are honored for their work behind the scenes to keep aircraft flying safely.

To celebrate, please consider nominating an outstanding aviation maintenance technician (AMT) for the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award, which recognizes 50 years of exemplary aviation maintenance experience, distinguished professionalism, and steadfast commitment to aviation safety. For more details on this prestigious award, click here.

Elon Musk’s Starlink company is lining up and leading AEA member companies to install low Earth orbit satellite connection equipment in a move that is shaking up the market. The first ripples of this soon-to-be much bigger trend appeared at the AEA Convention in Dallas in March, as one provider, AeroMech Inc., demonstrated how the system works in a customer’s King Air.

SpaceX’s Starlink constellation has more than 5,000 satellites in low Earth orbit and provides global coverage even in polar regions. Starlink’s satellites are only about 342 miles above the Earth, while geostationary satellites fly at an altitude of 22,236 miles, so the data can move 32 times faster, according to AeroMech.

AeroMech is equipping King Air 200/300 aircraft with the system under a supplemental type certificate it obtained from the FAA in March. The STC covers 17 King Air model variants ranging from the King Air 200 to the 360. The company is pursuing EASA, TCCA, AFAC and ANAC validation of this STC. AeroMech is an FAA STC Organization Designation Authorization company started in 1995 and has obtained more than 250 STCs. More...

An extreme sport enthusiast, Karl Grove isn’t afraid of winning or losing. Whether it’s pursuing his passion for motocross and air racing, trying aerobatics, or opening an aircraft maintenance and avionics business, Grove’s fearless risk-taking drives him to venture into uncharted territory.

In 2022, he started Grove Aero Services at Redlands Municipal Airport, across from orange trees, vestiges of the area’s citrus-producing past, and the Santa Ana River, which trickles by in a wide, mostly dry riverbed. The airport’s location on the east side of the Los Angeles Basin has helped the company grow exponentially over the last two years.

“We’re at a small, friendly community airport, which people like,” said Grove in his cheerful English accent, a hallmark of growing up in Worcestershire, England. “General aviation pilots tend to stay away from busy controlled airports. It has a good-size runway. It’s easy to fly into, and we have a lot of space here. It’s a really cool airport.” More...

After acquiring Saab’s head-up display assets last year, Honeywell is completing development of an overhead HUD now in prototype stage for use with Primus Epic, Anthem and other Honeywell products. The company plans to develop a compact panel-mounted version next. The two companies are partnering on a three-year collaborative effort laid out in a 2023 agreement for Honeywell to acquire all of Saab’s HUD assets for use with a variety of Honeywell avionics systems.

Honeywell aims to certify the overhead unit already in development by 2026 and bring its first HUD product to market. “Our initial focus will be on large business jets and the airline market, but we really want to market the HUD in every sector,” said Ankur Kumar, senior director for integrated avionics at Honeywell. The company will be scaling up its HUD marketing in the military and airline sectors. The HUDs will be compatible with a lot of integrated avionics systems installed by Honeywell on airline aircraft." More...

For individuals interested in pursuing professional opportunities in the avionics industry, the AEA jobs board is your one-stop resource. Search the AEA's job listings and see what's on your horizon. Free resume posting is available for job-seekers.

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

The story of how Duncan Aviation got from where it started to where it is today is an interesting one. Whether it’s working on their avionics bench or the shop floor or dealing directly with customers, one thing that sets Duncan Aviation apart from other MROs is the dedication to service and quality practiced by every one of its 2,800-plus team members. Its founders, Donald and Betty Duncan, would be extremely proud of what their tiny aircraft dealer has become.

“Donald and Betty started in 1956 in the business dealing in World War II-era aircraft,” explained Duncan Aviation’s vice president of components, services, and satellites, Mark Cote. “They would buy them, learn to fly them, and then sell them. Everything Duncan Aviation does starts first and foremost with our team members and the company’s core values. Our customers develop lasting relationships with our people. You can build all the facilities and buy all the equipment you want, but it won’t mean anything to anyone if you don’t have the right people." More...

As 2023 was drawing to a close, Scott Roth was winding up in his new position at Texas Aerospace Technologies. Named regional sales manager for the western United States and western Canada, Roth’s holiday season was a whirlwind of training, in-depth product familiarization, and customer phone calls and visits.

“I have a list of well over 150 customers I’m contacting,” said Roth, from his home office in Oregon. “I think they’re excited to see somebody in their territory able to visit them a bit more often.”

Based in Irving, Texas, Texas Aerospace Technologies offers product distribution with accompanying specialized services, including engineering, calibration, STC development, marketing, inventory stocking and fulfillment. Industry veterans Francisco (Cisco) Hernandez and Brad Sutphin started the company in 2021, and later added Julie Westcott, with the goal of creating more than a catalog house. Texas Aerospace Technologies partners with customers to help bring products to market quicker by investing in the design and development process and STC certification. More...

What do you look for when interviewing candidates and managing millennials and Generation Z? How do you shop for consumables and bill them? And when was the last time you raised your rates and what was the response? Join us for a revealing and authentic conversation with three experienced AEA members as they share insightful tips in leading an avionics business.

Jaramey Ham of Aviation Design and Supply, Richard Authement of Auto’s Aviation, and Dave Hainline of Ramona Avionics share their real-word insights in this edition of “Shop Talk” on AEA Amplified. Listen...

Later this year, approved maintenance organizations, manufacturers, regulators and educators will come together for two days of training, networking and professional development. More specifically, the AEA Regionals are where aviation’s technology experts gather for technical training from leading avionics, instrument and test equipment manufacturers. These two-day events allow technicians and business owners the opportunity to learn industry best practices; connect with regional sales and product support representatives; satisfy training requirements; see the latest products and services in the exhibit hall; and receive important updates on the most current regulatory news affecting their business. Register Now...

Are you in the business of buying and selling avionics? If you list 25 items on the AEA's members-only equipment marketplace, your AEA membership virtually pays for itself. Equipment Exchange (EEDirect) is the online marketplace exclusively for AEA members to buy and sell to other AEA members.

It can be used for pricing equipment for quotes, and products are searchable by model/part number, description, region or AEA member company. The listing is updated monthly. To participate, login with your AEA member password at aea.net/eedirect.

The Federal Aviation Administration’s 46th annual General Aviation and Part 135 Activity Survey is now underway, reporting on calendar year 2023. The GA Survey is the only source of information on the general aviation fleet, the number of hours flown, and the ways people use general aviation aircraft.

Data from this survey are used by governmental agencies and industry to:

The FAA and industry need accurate data on a broad range of aircraft. Participation is voluntary, and everyone who is contacted is encouraged to respond to the survey so that all aviation activity is represented. If you have questions, contact Tetra Tech at 800-826-1797 or email infoaviationsurvey@tetratech.com.

Digital Databus Theory and Analysis (10 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...

Basic Wiring and Avionics Installation (7 seats remain)

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. Register Now...

Basic Pitot-Static & Transponder Theory, Testing & Troubleshooting (10 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...

Aircraft Instrument Systems (8 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...

ADS-B Configuration, Testing and Troubleshooting (12 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...

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...

Avionics Installation for Experimental Aircraft (9 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 out a niche, this class has something for everyone. Register Now...

Advanced Avionics 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 touch screen, 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 Service and Testing Fundamentals (12 seats remain)

This intensive three-day course is designed for experienced avionics technicians seeking comprehensive training in avionics testing, troubleshooting and service. Led by industry expert Don Dominguez of Radioman Avionics, participants will gain hands-on experience in bench testing LRUs, flight line testing, and aircraft troubleshooting across various avionics systems. From fundamental concepts to advanced techniques, this course covers a wide range of topics including navigation, communication, and transponder equipment service. Register Now...

Pitot-Static, Transponder, RVSM, and ADS-B: Testing & Inspection (14 seats remain)

Attendees will learn the proper methods for conducting pitot-static and transponder tests and inspections. This two-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...

AVX-10K and IFR6000/4000 Operations Training (14 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...

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.

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...

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.