Ranks Swell To More Than 1,310 Members

Membership in the Aircraft Electronics Association is at an all-time high as the Association enters 2007 and prepares for its 50th anniversary.

At the end of 2006, the AEA recorded 1,317 corporate members from around the world. The AEA also experienced record growth in 2006 with 134 new member companies, which is the largest number of new member companies in a single year in the organization’s 50-year history. AEA will mark that anniversary during the AEA International Convention and Trade Show from March 28-31, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV.

The AEA represents repair stations specializing in maintenance, repair and installation of avionics and electronic systems in general aviation aircraft. AEA membership also includes manufacturers of avionics equipment, instrument repair facilities, instrument manufacturers, airframe manufacturers, test equipment manufacturers, major distributors, engineers and educational institutions.

AEA President Paula Derks attributes the increase to providing vital services and programs to the membership.

"We had record growth because we delivered business solutions to current and perspective members that saved time and money, helped them do business in the ever-changing regulatory environment, helped them better train their technical staff and helped them manage and market their business," Derks said.

The Association began in 1957 with its first meeting attracting 50 individuals from small avionics shops interested in pooling their talents and experience, as well as working cooperatively with manufacturers and distributors, to arrive at higher industry standards. In 1977, 20 years after it was formed, AEA’s membership reached 279. In the 30 years since then, more than 1,000 new members joined.

The AEA isn't resting on its laurels for 2007.

The group's agenda for the upcoming year includes taking a lead on commenting on the FAA's proposed rulemaking for quality and ratings systems for Part 145 repair stations; continuing to serve on the executive board of the National Center for Aircraft Technician Training (NCATT), a National Science Foundation project to establish and maintain aviation technician education and skill standards as well as industry endorsed certifications; offering more training opportunities on new products, business management and regulatory knowledge; and partnering with general aviation sister organizations in the fight against user fees.

FMI: www.aea.org