What is a Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician (CAET)?

A CAET is an apprentice specializing in the installation, maintenance, and repair of aircraft electronic systems. These systems are crucial for modern aircraft operations and include navigation, communication, surveillance, flight control, and entertainment systems. A CAET possesses an understanding of these complex systems and adheres to stringent industry standards to ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft. CAET certification validates a technician’s knowledge against an industry developed ASTM standard. It further demonstrates an understanding of key avionics theories and practices as identified and developed by experienced technicians.

Benefits of CAET Certification

Earning your CAET certification offers numerous advantages, making it a worthwhile investment in your career.

Enhanced Credibility

Certification serves as an independent validation of your knowledge, instantly boosting your credibility with employers, colleagues, and clients. It demonstrates your commitment to learning and measures against the latest ASTM standards for aircraft electronics technicians.

Increased Earning Potential

Certified technicians often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. Employers recognize the value of certified professionals and are willing to compensate them accordingly.

Improved Job Opportunities

Many employers prefer or even require certification for certain positions. Holding this credential can open doors to a wider range of job opportunities and career advancement.

Greater Professional Recognition

CAET certification is a recognized and respected credential within the aviation industry. It signifies your expertise and dedication to the profession.

Personal and Professional Growth

The process of preparing for and achieving certification expands your knowledge and skills, contributing to your personal and professional growth. It also fosters a commitment to lifelong learning within the ever-evolving field of avionics.

Networking Opportunities

Becoming a CAET often connects you with other certified professionals, creating valuable networking opportunities and fostering collaboration.

Certification Process, Badges & FAQs

The CAET Certification Process

The specific requirements for CAET certification process involves the following steps

Meet the Prerequisites

This usually includes a combination of relevant education (e.g., aviation high school, technical school, associate's degree, online training) and work experience in aircraft electronics.

Prepare for the Exam

Thorough preparation is essential for success. This may involve studying relevant materials, taking practice exams, and attending training courses.

Exam will be available May 1, 2025.

Pass the Exam

To earn your CAET, you need to score at least a 70% on the 100 question multiple choice test based on the following topics:

  1. Maintenance Procedures & Regulatory Requirements
  2. Basic Electrical Theory & Systems
  3. CNS - Communication, Navigation, & Surveillance Systems
  4. Flight Instrument & Pitot-Static Systems
  5. Digital Databus Systems
  6. Aircraft Wiring, Hardware, & Installation
  7. Tools, Test Equipment, & Measurement Techniques
  8. Safety, Housekeeping, & Best Practices

Maintain Your Certification

CAET certification requires periodic renewal to ensure that technicians stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices. Recertification can be done through AEA events and training courses.

CAET Certified
CAET
  • Certified
  • Regulations
  • Safety
  • Wiring
  • AC/DC theory
  • Aircraft electrical
  • CNS
  • Flight instruments
  • Level 1 of ASTM Std.
CAET Advanced
CAET-Advanced
  • CAET-Advanced
  • Wire harness
  • Pitot/static
  • Troubleshooting
  • Installation
  • Software configuration
  • AFCS
  • Level 2 of ASTM Std.
CAET Pro
CAET-Pro
  • CAET-Pro
  • Human factors
  • Safety management
  • Professional skills
  • Level 3 of ASTM Std.

Frequently Asked Questions

The CAET (Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician) is a new industry certification created by the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA). It is designed to validate the foundational knowledge and skills required for entry-level avionics technicians working in the business and general aviation industry.

Anyone can sit for the CAET exam. The primary audience is entry-level avionics technicians.

Unlike general certifications, the CAET focuses specifically on the needs of Business and general aviation maintenance organizations. It aligns with their training goals and industry expectations for entry-level technicians.

It was developed to address the increasing demand for skilled avionics technicians and to standardize entry-level training across the industry. The certification ensures technicians meet industry-recognized standards and was created with support of Duncan Aviation, Mid-Continent Instruments and Avionics, Park Rapids Avionics, Columbia Air Services, Cirrus Aircraft, Tramper Avionics, and Banyan Air Services. These organizations contributed by providing subject matter expertise, aligning certification content with industry standards, and validating the skills that entry-level technicians need to succeed.

The CAET certification verifies foundational knowledge in areas such as avionics systems, basic troubleshooting, electrical principles, and safety protocols.

The certification is recognized by AEA member organizations and aims to set a new standard for entry-level avionics training. Industry recognition will grow as adoption increases.

The exam can be taken online. Exam will be available May 1, 2025.

Many AEA member organizations will recommend or require this certification for new hires.

Primarily AEA member shops, but the list of supporters may grow over time.

The certification is designed to align with industry best practices and FAA-approved procedures for avionics installation, maintenance and repair.

Yes, the CAET serves as a foundation for more advanced certifications and specialized training.

The CAET certification test can be taken online. Exam will be available May 1, 2025.

The certification process includes a knowledge-based exam (e.g., multiple-choice) consisting of 100 questions and requires a 70% passing rate.

The exam itself takes a couple hours, but preparation time will depend on the candidate’s background and use of study materials.

Topics include basic avionics systems, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting methods, electrical principles, and safety standards.

This usually includes a combination of relevant education (e.g., aviation high school, technical school, associate's degree, online training) and work experience in aircraft electronics.

Yes, candidates can retake the exam.

$119

Yes, the certification is designed to make candidates more competitive in the job market and better prepared for higher-paying roles in avionics.

Yes, AEA offers two online training options to accommodate different learning styles and schedules:

  1. Self-Study Option: This option provides one year of access to comprehensive online content. It is designed for self-paced learners who prefer to study independently. The online course includes approximately 150 hours of material, allowing participants to learn at their own convenience.

  2. Virtual Class Option: In addition to one year of access to the online content, this option includes a one-day instructor-led virtual class. The virtual class is ideal for learners who prefer real-time interaction with an instructor and peers, allowing for immediate feedback and deeper discussions on key topics. Course dates TBA.

Yes, recertification is required every 3 years to ensure skills and knowledge remain current with industry standards.

To keep your CAET current, you will need to complete recertification process Continuing Education Unit (CEU), or earn the CAET Advanced certification.

CAET certification requires periodic renewal to ensure that technicians stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices. Recertification can be done through AEA events and training courses.

AEA’s certification team or a designated support contact can assist. Email nickb@aea.net or call 816-347-5102

Email nickb@aea.net or call 816-347-5102

Have questions about AEA Certifications?

Nick Brown

Nick Brown - Director of Workforce Development

Contact Nick Brown, Director of Workforce Development, at 816-347-5102 or nickb@aea.net

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