Garmin Introduces SmartCharts

Garmin recently announced SmartCharts, what it calls "a dynamic aviation charting solution that will provide pilots with a simplified and intuitive experience by producing clear and relevant data to depict a chart tailored for their specific flight operation." According to Garmin, initially available in the Garmin Pilot app, SmartCharts serves as the primary charting tool and allows pilots to view simplified terminal procedures, including instrument approach procedures, departure procedure, standard terminal arrival and airport diagrams.

“Terminal procedures have long been cluttered with outdated or superfluous information that may not be relevant to a pilot’s flight, obscuring important details that could be easily missed," said Phil Straub, Garmin executive vice president and managing director of aviation. "Garmin SmartCharts allows all pilots to quickly and easily tailor procedures to highlight the most relevant and key information in a simplified, optimized format to ultimately help to enhance safety and situational awareness.” More...

FAA Recognizes 5 NFF Aviation Services Employees with Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award

NFF Aviation Services, an AEA member since 2014 and located in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, recently announced that five of its aviation maintenance professionals have been awarded the prestigious Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award by the Federal Aviation Administration. This honor recognizes individuals who have exhibited professionalism, skill, and dedication to aviation safety through 50 years of service in the aircraft maintenance industry.

The five recipients are: Bruce Kukuruda; Bernie Blanco; Patrick Gallagher; Harold Rutledge; and Edward Meegan. More...

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Give Your Business the Edge

Attend an AEA Regional near you

Investing in your avionics technicians' knowledge and skills is crucial for the success and compliance of your business. Starting in September, the Aircraft Electronics Association is bringing together approved maintenance organizations, manufacturers, regulators, and educators for a powerful two-day conference designed to directly benefit your bottom line. Imagine your technicians returning equipped with the latest industry best practices, ensuring higher quality service and increased customer satisfaction.

Each AEA Regional offers a unique opportunity to:

• Elevate your team's expertise: Learn cutting-edge technical skills and industry best practices to improve efficiency and service delivery.
• Build valuable connections: Network with regional sales and product support representatives to gain insights and find solutions tailored to your needs.
• Stay compliant effortlessly: Satisfy crucial training requirements and receive the latest updates on regulations impacting your business, ensuring you're always ahead of the curve.
• Discover innovative solutions: Explore the exhibit hall showcasing the newest products and services that can streamline your operations and give you a competitive edge.

Don't miss this valuable opportunity to invest in you, your team and your business's future. Sign up now...

Report: Avionics Industry to Hit $82 Billion by 2030

On June 3, Flying noted that a new report from research and management consulting firm MarketsandMarkets indicates the avionics market will be worth $82.3 billion by 2030. Researchers indicated that the market increase will take place partly due to digital technology such as artificial intelligence and data analytics.

Special-mission aircraft were spotlighted due to demand from governments, militaries, and private companies. More...

AeroEducate: Crimp, Pin, Connect

AEA to present workshops at AirVenture

The AEA will present workshops at AirVenture Oshkosh as part of its ongoing workforce development initiatives. Visit the AeroEducate Center, July 22 and 23, from 3-5 p.m. and get ready to learn how to crimp, pin, and build wire harnesses.

This hands-on activity is ideal for middle and high school students interested in aviation technology. You'll use industry-standard tools and techniques to gain practical avionics maintenance and installation skills. Join us for an exciting experience that will spark your interest in aviation technology. More...

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 Installation Technician at Green Mountain Avionics, More...
• Machinist at Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing, More...
• Avionics Manager/Installers at GABC Avionics, More...

Become a Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician

Elevate your expertise

Are you ready to take your avionics career to new heights? In today's rapidly evolving aviation landscape, demonstrating knowledge of aircraft electronics is more critical than ever. The Aircraft Electronics Association recently launched the Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician (CAET) credential, a powerful new industry credential designed to recognize and validate the knowledge of dedicated professionals. This certification isn't just another piece of paper – it's a testament to your expertise, enhancing your credibility, and starting you on a path to even higher recognition.

Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your future, enhance your professional standing, and join a distinguished group of certified avionics professionals. Learn more about the CAET certification, explore the exam details, and register to take the exam online today. More...

EDMO Distributors announced a partnership with Nelson Aviation to distribute the patent-pending PinPoint Wiring Access and Diagnostic Tool.

Duncan Aviation's Robert Suarez earned recognition as a Certified Aircraft Sales Broker from the International Aircraft Dealers Association. The company also completed a major paint and interior refurbishment on a Falcon 900EX at its full-service facility in Lincoln, Nebraska. It also announced that 21 students earned the 2025 Karen K. Duncan Scholarship. In addition, eight engine technicians have successfully completed factory authorization training on the Pratt & Whitney PW500 series engine and have begun their first overhaul.

Southeast Aerospace received FAA STC number SA12011DE for the installation of mission equipment on the Cessna 208 and 208B Caravan aircraft. Southeast Aerospace also launched the Connectivity Cockpit Controller, designed to simplify in-flight connectivity management for aircraft models equipped with Gogo Galileo and/or Avance systems.

Pilot John International announced that customers who order the CCX Technologies T-RX RP+ Avionics Radio and Pulse Tester in June will receive 25% off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

uAvionix announced FAA certification for its AV-HSI and AV-APA. uAvionix also announced FAA approval of software version 3.0.1 for its flagship certified AV-30-C flight display.

StandardAero announced a partnership with Green Taxi Solutions, under which StandardAero will lead certification of GTS’s Zero Engine Taxi fully electric aircraft taxiing solution.

Honeywell announced its IntuVue RDR-7000 Weather Radar System has been certified by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) for use on Bombardier Learjet 40/45 aircraft.

Gogo's Galileo HDX connectivity solution will be offered by Embraer for its Phenom 300 aftermarket customers through an STC generated in partnership with Gogo.

ACR Electronics announced that its distress tracking ELT, the ARTEX ELT 5000, has been type-certified on the Boeing 737 family and is now entering service as the only approved and selectable ELT-DT option for Boeing 737 aircraft.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University launched a pioneering associate degree program that provides an accelerated hiring path for students seeking careers in safeguarding the nation’s air traffic system. The new Associate of Science in Air Traffic Management program — set to debut in August 2025 — has been approved to be part of the FAA’s Enhanced Air Traffic Controller Training Initiative.

Venue Smart Monitor for Smaller Cabins

Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, has added a self-contained, smart monitor with 4K liquid crystal display technology to its Venue line of cabin entertainment and control systems. This Venue offering provides an affordable option for turboprops and small business jets.

A full feature Venue system can control everything in a large-cabin business jet, including lighting, window shades, cabin temperature and entertainment. Venue systems are flying on nearly 2,200 airframes, including top-of-the-line long-range business jets to turboprops. More...

Columbia Air Services

Robust demand drives expansion

At Groton-New London Airport on the southeast Connecticut coast, Columbia Air Services’ busy hangar overlooks runway 5/23 where operators from across the United States touch down seeking help from the service center’s technicians. The team specializes in avionics for general aviation aircraft and provides Daher TBM sales and maintenance.

“On the maintenance side, we only service TBMs – about 135 a year,” said Chris Bergman, avionics director. “On the avionics side, we work on single-engine pistons up through twin-engine turbines.” More...

AEA Convention Spotlights Excellence

As the world’s preeminent gathering of aircraft electronics manufacturers, distributors, and repair stations, the AEA International Convention & Trade Show is the most anticipated avionics event of the year. The 68th annual AEA Convention was no exception, as 1,577 attendees from around the world converged in Phoenix, Arizona, March 18-21, for four days of networking, training and professional development, and to browse the very latest avionics products and services from over 130 companies on the exhibit floor.

More than 300 repair stations and maintenance organizations participated in this year’s AEA Convention, representing more than a third of the association’s membership. Overall, the event served as a powerful venue to push the avionics industry forward with new initiatives, recognize those elevating the industry to new heights and celebrate the strength of this community. More...

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

Oshkosh, Wisconsin

July 21-27, 2025

Aviation enthusiasts totaling more than 500,000 from 80 countries attend this event at Wittman Regional Airport. The World's Greatest Aviation Celebration has it all when it comes to aircraft. Warbirds. Vintage. Homebuilts. Ultralights. More...

Drone and AAM Policy Symposium

Washington, D.C.

July 29-30, 2025

From evolving regulations to groundbreaking innovations, this is your opportunity to engage with the key players shaping the future of the national airspace. The event takes place at Nationals Park. More...

AEA West Regional

Reno, Nevada

September 4-5, 2025

Approved maintenance organizations, manufacturers, regulators and educators come together for two days of training, networking and professional development at the Grand Sierra Resort. More...

Aircraft Instrument Systems (12 seats remain)

July 9-10, 2025

Virtual-live course

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 & Troubleshooting (14 seats remain)

July 30, 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...

Safety Management System Coordinator Training (8 seats remain)

August 5, 2025

Virtual-live course

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...

Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician (CAET) Prep Course (12 seats remain)

August 6, 2025

Virtual-live course

The Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician (CAET) Prep Course is designed for aspiring and current aviation technicians seeking to earn their CAET certification. This course focuses on the fundamental knowledge required for entry-level avionics technician roles. Register Now...

Digital Databus Theory & Analysis (14 seats remain)

August 7, 2025

Virtual-live course

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...

Avionics Installation for Experimental Aircraft (13 seats remain)

August 13-15, 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...

Avionics Service and Testing Fundamentals (15 seats remain)

August 18-20, 2025

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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...

AVX-10K & IFR6000/4000 Operations Training (14 seats remain)

August 20, 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...

Pitot-Static, Transponder, RVSM, and ADS-B: Testing & Inspection (12 seats remain)

August 21-22, 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)

September 8-12, 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 (15 seats available)

September 15-17, 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. Register Now...

Basic Pitot-Static & Transponder Theory, Testing & Troubleshooting (15 seats available)

September 18-19, 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...

Pick Up Your 2025-26 AEA Pilot's Guide at AirVenture

Published annually, the 2025-26 edition of the AEA Pilot's Guide will be unveiled with free distribution at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin, July 21-27. 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 23rd 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. This year’s edition will begin shipping in August. Individuals residing in the United States may request a free copy while supplies by clicking here.

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 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.