Published annually by the Aircraft Electronics Association, the 2024-25 edition of the AEA Pilot's Guide will be unveiled with free distribution at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin, July 22-28. AEA staff members will distribute thousands of complimentary copies to pilots and aircraft owners at the AEA’s AirVenture booth, No. 2035/2036 in Hangar B at Wittman Regional Airport.

This year marks the 22nd 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 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 by clicking here.

Avionics professionals will gather in Reno, Nevada, for the AEA West Regional, Sept. 5-6. Join aviation’s technology experts for technical training from leading avionics, instrument and test equipment manufacturers. This two-day event is where technicians and business owners 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. More...

Each year in the month of July, thousands of extra copies of Avionics News are distributed from the AEA’s booth at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, and this year will be no different. Often dubbed the world’s greatest aviation celebration, nearly 700,000 aviation enthusiasts and more than 10,000 aircraft arrive at Wittman Regional Airport, making it the busiest airport in the world during the event. Many of those attendees will visit Hangar B to pick up this magazine as well as the AEA Pilot’s Guide, July 22-28. More...

Daedalean of Switzerland, an artificial intelligence/machine learning company working with Avidyne, has agreed with Xwing, a company aiming to use AI/ML to automate air-cargo Caravans, to share flight and simulation data. Avidyne, a longtime member of the Aircraft Electronics Association, is not part of this particular partnership. It has, however, applied for a supplemental type certificate for its new PilotEye system using hardware and software developed by Daedalean.

Daedalean and Xwing are sharing data to enhance their separate efforts to win concurrent certification from the Federal Aviation Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency for their novel AI/ML software and hardware. More...

Aircraft Structural Inspections’ technicians have traveled the world – to Malta, Philippines, China, Africa, even Yugoslavia – performing nondestructive testing and pitot-static and transponder checks for aircraft operators. ASI founder Beau Hardison estimates he’s carried his duffle bag of tools and equipment around the world four times.

When we talked on a Tuesday in early May, Hardison was leaving Maryland, heading to Louisiana. He planned to be in Mississippi that Thursday and back to his 6,000-square-foot shop near the Mountain View Airport in Arkansas, on Friday. Later in the month, his schedule included New York and Alaska. More...

Trimec Aviation has teamed with Universal Avionics to earn a supplemental type certificate from the FAA, enabling the cost-effective modernization of legacy Falcon 2000 and 2000EX-series jets with Universal’s InSight FDS, SBAS-FMS, and UniLink CNS. Back in 1986, when John Dunn, Steve Akins, and Doug St. Don decided that Fort Worth’s Meacham Field would be a great place to start their business aircraft MRO, the easiest part of the partnership was choosing the name: the three mechanics became Trimec Aviation.

“Business aviation was booming at that time, and the three partners got a little hangar off to the side of the FBO ramp and started providing inspections and maintenance for the IAI (Israel Aircraft/Aerospace Industries) Westwinds that frequented the airport,” explained Trimec Aviation General Manager John Holland. “Their reputation quickly grew among Westwind and Astra owners, and those were pretty much the only types they worked on for a long time.” More...

Maintenance isn’t done until the paperwork is completed. This “Shop Talk” investigates the recordkeeping requirements for maintenance, repair stations, and best practices to include the differences between required records for work performed for Part 135 operators versus Part 91 operators; the records that must be maintained on parts; and the best way to design and document inspections so that they meet regulatory requirements without impairing the business.

Air Sense Avionics President Brian Yablon leads a Q&A discussion with the AEA’s Ric Peri in this edition of “Shop Talk” on AEA Amplified. Listen...

In this month's View from Washington column in Avionics News, Ric Peri tackles the topic of human factors. Peri writes: "In the past month or so, there has been a recurring theme: Sorry, the phone was ringing ... now where was I? Oh, yes, a recurring theme: distractions! Distractions in the workplace is one of the human factor errors that have a direct link to accidents, incidents and rework.

"In today’s world, distractions are everywhere. While technology has advanced and simplified communications, provided instant access to information, and delivered just-in-time training, it also can distract technicians at critical steps." More...

The latest annual Safety Review of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency is now online and looks at the safety performance of the European aviation system in 2023. This, and other analyses carried out by EASA in collaboration with national aviation authorities and industry, is used to support the safety risk management process that drives the decision-making reflected in the European Plan for Aviation Safety. Therefore, where risks are identified, further analysis is performed and when needed, mitigation actions are included in the EPAS.

EASA notes that this year, there is a new chapter specifically looking at unmanned aircraft system / drone safety performance. More...

Working long hours is the norm for an aircraft maintenance engineer. Add in employer and client demands, scheduling difficulties and delays, parts shortages, often sub-optimal working conditions and environments, high mental workload, stress, and pressure, and you can begin to imagine what a day in the life of an aircraft engineer might look like.

When mental health in aviation is covered in various media, it almost always focuses on pilots and air crew. But too often it’s the engineers, technicians, mechanics, and support people who don’t get a mention, despite their mental health and wellbeing being critical to aircraft safety. More...

AEA members in the United States have access to affordable health coverage options through LIG Solutions. This member benefit offers 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.

As these are individual health plans, they are tailored to unique health and financial needs. This allows AEA members to find health coverage solutions from major carriers regardless of where you live in the U.S. 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:

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 (3 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 (9 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 (6 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...

SDR-OMNI Operations Training (15 seats remain)

This half-day course is designed to provide avionics technicians with the knowledge and skills required to operate and configure the TIC SDR-OMNI all-in-one avionics test set. Several features and functions will be demonstrated with live avionics units. The instructors will provide detailed training in the areas of required FAA testing – transponders, ADS-B Out, and ELTs. In addition, test strategies and techniques will be covered that will allow avionics technicians to efficiently test and troubleshoot common avionics problems using the SDR-OMNI test set. 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 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...

Basic Wiring and Avionics Installation (9 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...

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...

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

Safety Management System Coordinator (15 seats remain)

Risk management is a vital element of any successful business. Whether driven by best practices or responding to a regulatory requirement, the AEA has your solution. Leveraged by the 900-strong repair station membership, the AEA developed a proprietary SMS program designed specifically for maintenance organizations. This program is currently used on every continent. The AEA has been coordinating with the Federal Aviation Administration and Transport Canada Civil Aviation, as well as discussions with the Australian government's Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, for future acceptance. Register Now...

Introduction to DO-160 Qualification (14 seats remain)

This course is designed to equip professionals with essential insights into RTCA DO-160, a cornerstone standard dictating test criteria and methodologies crucial for ensuring the operational integrity of systems and equipment within the aircraft environment. Individuals involved in system, avionic or electric design of aircraft, aircraft systems and TSO articles should attend. Whether for type certificate approvals, STC approvals or TSO authorization, this course will provide the necessary background to better understand the system and equipment environmental requirements essential to the fundamental compliance demonstration to show that a system or equipment will function as intended in the exposed environment. Register Now...

Digital Databus Theory and Analysis (14 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...

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...

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.