Gogo's Acquisition of Satcom Direct Complete

On Dec. 4, Gogo announced it has completed its acquisition of Satcom Direct, "creating the only multi-orbit, multi-band, in-flight connectivity provider serving the needs of every segment of the global business aviation and military/government mobility markets," according to a press release. Gogo said it paid $375 million in cash and issued 5 million shares of Gogo stock to SD ownership at close and could pay up to an additional $225 million tied to realizing performance thresholds over the next four years.

In addition, Chris Moore, president of SD, was appointed Gogo’s chief executive officer and will lead the combined company. He succeeds Oakleigh Thorne, who transitions to executive chair of Gogo's board of directors. More...

FAA and EASA Pledge to Support Safe and Secure Civil Aviation Activities

The Federal Aviation Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency recently signed a Declaration of Intent to continue to foster and enrich its partnership to support safe and secure civil aviation activities. Leaders from the FAA and EASA discussed the renewed commitment at the International Civil Aviation Organization 80th Anniversary of Chicago Convention.

Under the Declaration, the FAA and EASA agree to share knowledge and best practices on safety data and risk management, cybersecurity and emerging technologies, innovation, research, and sustainability, as well as seek regulatory alignment where possible. Both organizations will also collaborate to provide technical assistance to regions across the globe. More...

Ask the Industry

As 2024 comes to an end this month, what is the average salary increase for your company's avionics technicians next year?

Application Period Open for AEA Board of Directors Election

Submit completed application by December 16

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. 16, 2024.

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 2025. More...

Garmin Introduces G3000 PRIME

It’s hard to believe, but Garmin introduced its G1000 integrated flight deck 20 years ago and unveiled its first touchscreen-controlled cockpit, the G3000, just 10 years later. Over the past two decades, Garmin has delivered over 30,000 integrated flight decks. That’s a lot of significant technological achievements in a relatively short time. Who says nothing new is happening in business and general aviation?

Not to rest on its laurels, the market leader is taking its next significant leap forward in touchscreen control with the introduction of its “most advanced integrated cockpit yet” – the all-new G3000 PRIME. “Garmin likes to be an innovator – it’s in our DNA,” explained Scott McCurley, Garmin avionics marketing manager. “We saw opportunities with new technologies and increased automation to take what is an already very successful product, our G3000, and elevate the pilot experience with greater capabilities and safety-enhancing features.” More...

AEA Convention Early-bird Registration Ends This Month

Register by year-end and save $235 per person

Registration is open for the 68th 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 2025. The event will take place March 18-21, 2025, at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Attendees must register by Dec. 31, 2024, to receive the early-bird discount price of $715 (AEA member rate) for a full convention registration. The early-bird promotion offers a $235 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...

Air Andrew Expands Quickly

At Air Andrew in southwestern Manitoba, Canada, exciting changes are taking shape. Over the last 24 months, the family-owned and -operated company has added new hangars and a fuel farm, enlarged the ramp to accommodate large-cabin business jets, started charter and aerial application operations, and enhanced its flight training programs. Even Virden airfield’s runway was just extended to 6,000 feet. On top of it all, last year, Air Andrew added a Transport Canada approved maintenance organization.

The new AMO services single-engine piston aircraft up through Cessna Citation X mid-size jets, offering avionics installations, STC development, structural repair and paint for Air Andrew’s own fleet as well as outside operators. More...

ATE Award Applications Due December 31

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 Aircraft Electronics Association 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 2024 award are due Dec. 31, 2024. More...

The Survey Says...

A look inside the 2024 AEA Rate and Labor Survey

It’s no secret that over the past several years, avionics repair stations around the globe have been immersed in one of the most challenging economic environments in history. Though supply chain woes are receding into memory for many shops, managers in 2024 continued to face ongoing issues and costs related to inflation and technician workforce shortages – as well as instability and disruption stemming from a volatile election year in the United States.

Although inflation showed signs of cooling in the U.S. this year, prices remained high, increasing repair shop costs and impacting budgets. According to the AEA’s 2024 Rate and Labor Survey, shop rates spiked in the West and Central regions of the U.S. in particular. “I don’t remember a time we saw shop rates increase so sharply for two regions,” said AEA President and CEO Mike Adamson. More...

AEA Scholarship Applications Available Online

Apply by April 1, 2025

The AEA Educational Foundation will award multiple scholarships for the 2025-26 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, 2025. Apply...

Shop Talk:

How the repair station regulations support and encourage workforce development

Many avionics repair stations have been successful in recruiting, hiring and training their own technicians. However, in light of the many challenges facing the industry, this episode discusses hiring challenges, rules governing training, recency of experience and documentation, training programs, and the “Moss interpretation” on supervision. 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...

Deadline for 2025 Health Coverage Approaching

Health coverage options available to AEA members in U.S.

As you start to think about the upcoming holiday season, an important deadline is fast approaching to keep you both healthy and financially secure in 2025. The 2025 open enrollment period for health coverage ends Dec. 15. The association has partnered with LIG Solutions 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.

To take advantage of this exclusive member benefits program, call 800-306-0163 for a no-obligation quote. Beyond major medical plans, LIG also offers a range of supplemental coverage, including dental, vision, hospitalization, and critical illness plans. Important dates to note include:

• Under 65 open enrollment: Now through Dec. 15, 2024
• Employer-Sponsored Coverage: Can be done at any time of the year depending on your current situation. More...

Neptune Aviation is transitioning its airtanker platform to the Airbus A319.

Honeywell signed a strategic agreement with Bombardier to provide advanced technology for current and future Bombardier aircraft in avionics, propulsion and satellite communications technologies. Honeywell also announced that Avianca has selected its portfolio of avionics technologies and mechanical systems for use in its new Airbus A320neo fleet. 

Duncan Aviation is offering sizeable future credits for upgrading from Gogo’s legacy air-to-ground systems to the AVANCE L3 or AVANCE L5 connectivity platforms. Duncan Aviation also announced a new partnership with Extant Aerospace to provide support for legacy aircraft components.

WS Technologies has expanded its beacon tester solutions to include full second generation beacon measurement capabilities, meeting the new GADSS mandate for emergency beacons that went into effect in January 2024.

C&L Aerospace entered into a long-term agreement that facilitates the disassembly of end-of-life business jet aircraft. Parts from these aircraft will support various Cessna Citation models, including Excel (XL), XLS, XLS+, (560), Sovereign (680), and Latitude (680A).

Skyservice announced its status as an authorized Starlink dealer.

Astronics Corp. launched the ATS-3200 Radio Test Set, the next evolution in tactical radio testing.

Featured Jobs: Look Who's Hiring

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:

• Avionics Product Line Apps Engineer at VIAVI Solutions, More...
• Metal Specialist Designer/Technician at Forge Flightworks, More...
• Avionics Installation Technician: Craftsman/Master Level at Forge Flightworks, More...
• Avionics Technician at Metal Innovations, More...
• Avionics Technician at RCMP, More...
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics) at Avionics 2000, More...
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical) at Avionics 2000, More...

Verticon

Dallas, Texas

March 10-13, 2025

This event is formerly known as HAI Heli-Expo. Be part of the world's largest vertical aviation conference and trade show at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. More...

AEA International Convention & Trade Show

Phoenix, Arizona

March 18-21, 2025

Register by Dec. 31, 2024, to receive the early-bird discount price of $715 (AEA member rate) for a full convention registration. The early-bird promotion offers a $235 per person savings off the on-site registration fee. More...

Women in Aviation International Conference

Denver, Colorado

March 27-29, 2025

Get ready to be energized by our inspiring keynote speakers, dive into professional development seminars, explore engaging education sessions, and discover exciting exhibits in the hall. More...

NBAA Maintenance Conference

Columbus, Ohio

April 29-May 1, 2025

See the latest innovations, tools and technology in aviation maintenance. This event provides vital education and networking opportunities for anyone involved in business aircraft maintenance – from technicians to directors of maintenance. More...

EBACE

Geneva, Switzerland

May 20-22, 2025

As the European Business Aviation Association takes full control of EBACE, the event is entering a new era – one that reflects its continued importance as the leading forum for business aviation across Europe. More...

Advanced Avionics Installation & Configuration (5 seats remain)

January 6-8, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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...

SDR-OMNI Operations Training (15 seats remain)

January 8, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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. Register Now...

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

January 9-10, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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...

Certified Repair Station Training (sold-out)

January 13-17, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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...

Basic Wiring and Avionics Installation (sold-out)

January 27-29, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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 (14 seats remain)

January 29, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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 (15 seats remain)

January 30-31, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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...

Avionics Installation for Experimental Aircraft (5 seats remain)

February 5-7, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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...

ADS-B Configuration, Testing & Troubleshooting (13 seats remain)

February 6, 2025

Virtual-live Course

This course is designed for currently employed repair station personnel and installers and maintainers 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...

Request Your 2024-25 AEA Pilot's Guide

Published annually by the Aircraft Electronics Association, the 2024-25 edition of the AEA Pilot's Guide is now available upon request. 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.

AeroCareers.net Offers Aerospace Career Paths

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...

Are You Hiring? List Your Openings

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.

About the AEA



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.