AEA and iFlightPlanner Collaborate to Help Pilots Locate Avionics Businesses

Private pilots and corporate operators now have the added benefit of easily locating AEA member companies through iFlightPlanner. This new service will help thousands of pilots find an avionics shop in the United States through iFlightPlanner’s web-based platforms, including iFlightPlanner for AOPA, and mobile apps for iOS. The collaboration is expected to expand to additional countries in the future.

iFlightPlanner is the simple, cost-effective flight planning solution with ADS-B connectivity for private pilots and corporate operators. Through its comprehensive airport, FBO, and business directory, AEA member companies will receive a basic listing and have the opportunity to upgrade their listings to maximize the exposure for their services and amenities. More...

Early-bird Registration Open for 2025 AEA Convention

Register by Dec. 31 and save $235 per person

Registration has opened 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...

AEA Canada Regional Begins Thursday in Toronto

Approved maintenance organizations, manufacturers, regulators and educators will come together for two days of training, networking and professional development at the AEA Canada Regional this week. The two-day event takes place Sept. 12-13 at the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites and allows 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. More...

Precision Quotes Help Shops and Customers

At the 2024 AEA Convention in Dallas, Levi Self, owner of Midwest Avionics, explained to those who write quotes for their shops how “precision quotes” for avionics installations let both the shop and the customer know exactly what the job will entail. Being vague can lead to unhappy customers and unprofitable installations as unexpected forks in the road incur costs that the customer truly believes should be borne by the shop. This could lead to the shop eating 100 hours of unanticipated labor, which doesn’t make a shop owner’s day. Big disputes can become more fraught if lawyers get involved.

There is a difference between a quote and an estimate, in Self’s view, and it is a mistake to use these terms interchangeably. “A quote is the exact price of the job that should not change unless the customer changes the scope or a shop discovers an issue that effectively changes the scope,“ Self said. “Beware of the difference in language. An estimate is more of a best guess that a job will cost this much, whereas a quote is more of a fixed price. The quote is what a customer is going to pay to the shop in the end.” More...

Airflite Shines With Vast Reach

Amid Asia-Pacific’s growing aviation sector, Australia-based Airflite offers comprehensive aircraft services accompanied by what it calls “dazzling” customer service. The company started in 1981 as a small Cessna dealership at Jandakot Airport and has since grown to six bases and more than 100 employees. It boasts key partnerships with the Australian Defence Force, regional airlines and corporate operators.

Privately owned, Airflite delivers a remarkable breadth of services for large and small aircraft operators of all types. Its capabilities range from maintenance and overhauls to aircraft sales and management, from structural repairs and avionics installations to FBO services. Airflite even operates a robust flight school. More...

Weather Radar for the Masses

When the GWX 8000 StormOptix Doppler weather radar with Auto Mode and other features was first introduced in 2021, it was STC’d for some applications of the G1000 NXi, G3000 and G5000. At the 2024 AEA Convention in Dallas, the GTN 750Xi was added to this list, significantly expanding the compatible aircraft and user base for the weather radar.

According to Garmin, general aviation aircraft owners will be able to use capabilities with the GWX 8000 commonly only seen in business aviation aircraft. This includes owners of piston singles and twins. If an aircraft is already equipped with the GTN 750Xi and the GWX 75 all-digital Doppler radar, only a software update is needed. The GWX 8000 automatic features can be added with just an enablement card. A stand-alone GWX 8000 system is available for aircraft owners who have not installed a GWX 75. More...

AEA Amplified Podcast:

Six Pack Aero makes room in the panel for modern avionics

When Lyle Jansma began upgrading his Cessna 172 a few years ago, he did not anticipate it would evolve into a side gig helping owner-operators build instrument panels. Or that it would lead him to opening a new business, Six Pack Aero, at Bellingham International Airport. Today, the AEA provisional member manufactures the Legacy XL Stationary Panel, the first and only STC/PMA-approved Cessna 172 instrument panel upgrade solution for installing a standard six-pack layout or a 10-inch primary flight display. Learn the importance of knowing the structural role of stationary panels from Jansma in this episode of AEA Amplified. Listen...

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 Engineer, Sr., at Maloney Services Group, More...
• Avionics Supervisor/Lead at Maloney Service Group, More...
• Aircraft Avionics Technician at Green Mountain Avionics, More...
• Avionics Service Technician-Level 3 at Banyan Air Service, More...
• Avionics Technician at King Aerospace Commercial Corp., More...

Did You Know About This AEA Member Benefit?

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...

AEA Canada Regional

Toronto, Ontario

September 12-13, 2024

Avionics professionals in Canada will gather at the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites for two days of training, networking and professional development. More...

AEA South Pacific Regional

Melbourne, Australia

September 26-27, 2024

Join aviation's technology experts from New Zealand, Australia and the entire South Pacific for two days of training and exhibits. More...

AEA Central Regional

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

October 10-11, 2024

This year's Central Regional is at the Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel. Make your hotel reservations by September 18. More...

NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition

Las Vegas, Nevada

October 22-24, 2024

The world of business aviation comes together at NBAA-BACE to see the latest aircraft, review innovations for the flight deck, and hear from aviation and business leaders about the future of the industry. More...

AEA Europe Regional

Copenhagen, Denmark

November 12-13, 2024

AEA members in Europe should make their hotel reservations by October 11 at the Radisson Collection Royal Hotel. More...

NATA Aviation Business Conference

Nashville, Tennessee

November 13, 2024

This annual industry reunion will provide a final chance to prepare for new opportunities and get ahead of challenges in the coming year. Join NATA, industry experts, thought leaders, and key aviation business decision-makers representing various sectors of the GA community, including FBOs, airports, air charter operators, MROs, and AAMs/UAMs, to create connections and foster open discussion on a range of key industry topics. More...

AEA East Regional

Jacksonville, Florida

November 21-22, 2024

The sixth and final AEA Regional of the year takes place at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. Make your hotel reservations by October 16. More...

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

October 8, 2024

Virtual-live course

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...

Basic Wiring and Avionics Installation (10 seats remain)

October 14-16, 2024

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...

AVX-10K and IFR6000/4000 Operations Training (7 seats remain)

October 16, 2024

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 (13 seats remain)

October 17-18, 2024

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 (7 seats remain)

October 23-25, 2024

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...

Safety Management System Coordinator Training (8 seats remain)

October 28, 2024

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...

Introduction to DO-160 Qualification (10 seats remain)

October 29-30, 2024

In-person course; Lee's Summit, Missouri

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. Register Now...

Digital Databus Theory and Analysis (10 seats remain)

November 1, 2024

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...

Aircraft Instrument Systems (15 seats remain)

December 4-5, 2024

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...

Advanced Avionics Installation & Configuration (14 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 (15 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...

Thomas Global Systems announced its TFD-4100 drop-in CRT-to-LCD flight display upgrade for Collins Aerospace Pro Line 4 flight decks has received STC approval from the FAA for Bombardier Challenger 604, Gulfstream G100/G200, Dassault Falcon 2000/2000EX/50EX and Saab 2000 aircraft. It also received FAA STC approval for the TFD-4000 drop-in LCD flight display upgrade for MHI CRJ 1000 flight decks. This latest certification follows previously received FAA STC approval for other CRJ Series models, including CRJ 200, CRJ 700 and CRJ 900.

Gogo Business Aviation, in conjunction with Duncan Aviation, has completed the first installation of Gogo Galileo HDX on a Bombardier Challenger 300 and has commenced flight testing as the company marches toward commercial launch of its low-Earth orbit global broadband solution later this year.

Piper Aircraft announced that its new M700 FURY single-engine turboprop has been awarded type certification by Transport Canada Civil Aviation.

Viasat announced the integration of its Velaris L-band satellite terminal into a multi-link communications systems with Avionics Networks, a company developing innovative communication systems for uncrewed aerial vehicles.

StandardAero marked the 50th anniversary of its Augusta, Georgia, service center this month at Augusta Regional Airport. It is also celebrating 40 years of supporting Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW100 turboprop.

West Star Aviation Academy, established in January 2024 in partnership with Southwestern Illinois College, celebrated the graduation of its inaugural class. The 23 graduates are now in the process of testing for their FAA airframe license.

L2 Aviation received a strategic growth investment from Argentum, enabling it to expand production capacity, broaden its capabilities, and pursue strategic acquisitions, to support growing demand for its solutions.

Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S) now offers an FAA-certified digital Engine-Indicating and Crew-Alerting System Display System as an enhancement for its B757/B767 Flat Panel Display System.

C&L Aviation Services announced that Felipe Garcia will lead its new landing gear and wheel and brake capabilities as component shop manager.

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.

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.

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.