Recession? What Recession?

Hundreds of manufacturers of avionics, instruments, airframe and test equipment along with shop owners, managers and technicians poured into the exhibit hall at the Aircraft Electronics Association 46th Annual International Convention and Trade Show, April 24 through 26 in Orlando (FL).

Over 1,400 people attended the show. There were 124 exhibitors filling 210 booth spaces answering questions and demonstrating their products. Attendance was up over 10 percent from last year, giving convention-goers a positive look at what business will be like the rest of the year.

Over 48 hours of FAA-approved training was offered at the show "where business gets done," proving once again AEA's dedication to providing those in the avionics industry with the chance to participate, network and extract valuable information to boost their business. Sessions and technical workshops included topics such as Part 145 Training, Alteration Design and Documentation for Repair Stations, Aviation Rulemaking, Production Design Approval for Manufacturers, FlightSafety International's Maintenance Resource Management, Field Approvals forum, Aircraft Wiring forum, Transport Canada Aviation Maintenance Tool Management, and other technical workshops from major avionics manufacturers and distributors.

During the convention's opening, AEA President Paula Derks recognized George Lewison (above, right) as AEA's Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Celebrating the Centennial of Flight in this 100th year of flight, the U.S. Postal Service chose the AEA venue to unveil the First Flight commemorative postage stamp (below, right) during the opening.

AEA then recognized the winners of over $100,000 in aviation maintenenace scholarships, and the AEA member companies who provide funding for many of those scholarships.

Over 30 new products were introduced from various manufacturers and distributors during New Product Introductions -- a standing-room-only event.

During the annual Awards Luncheon, Sandia Aerospace was recognized as AEA's Associate Member of the Year. Barry Aylward, co-owner of Kitchener Aero in Breslau, Ontario and Mid-Canada Mod Center in Toronto, was recognized as AEA's Member of the Year.

The AEA Educational Foundation's Silent Auction was also a great success, raising over $23,000 to benefit students seeking a career in aviation electronics, and to help further educate AEA¹s members. The Foundation provides over $100,000 in scholarships each year.

AEA's 47th annual show is scheduled for March 30 through April 1, 2004 at Hilton's Paris Hotel in Las Vegas (NV).

FMI: www.aea.net