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Software Control & Compliance in Aircraft Maintenance

August 6, 2026 Live online
AEA Member $179 | Non-Member $249
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Modern aircraft are no longer just mechanical systems, they are software-defined platforms. A single improper update, missed verification step, or unauthorized action can compromise configuration control, invalidate airworthiness, or introduce latent system risk.

This high-impact training program is built around the FAA’s guidance in AC 43-216A, focusing on the real-world execution of software management during maintenance not just policy, but what technicians actually do on the line and in the shop.

Presented by: Kevin Bruce, AEA

Course Objective: Equip maintenance personnel—from apprentices to experienced technicians—with the knowledge, discipline, and procedural awareness required to:

  • Execute software installation and configuration correctly the first time
  • Maintain aircraft configuration integrity across the software lifecycle
  • Recognize when they are not authorized or qualified to perform software actions
  • Prevent improper updates, configuration drift, and undocumented changes

Course Outline

1. “Notes, Cautions, and Warnings” — Not Optional

Technicians will learn that:

  • ICA procedures are not guidance—they are requirements
  • Deviating from notes/cautions can:
    • Corrupt software loads
    • Misconfigure LRUs
    • Create non-compliant aircraft
  • AC 43-216A emphasizes that software loading must follow manufacturer procedures exactly and in all important respects

2. Software Lifecycle Control — From Receiving to Loading

Training walks through the entire lifecycle:

  • Receiving (authenticity, integrity verification)
  • Storage (controlled media, PED security)
  • Transfer (secure, authorized methods only)
  • Staging vs loading vs verification

Emphasis: Software is a controlled aircraft part—not just a file.  The control can overlap with the EASA Part IS requirements.

3. Configuration Control — The Core of Airworthiness

Participants will learn:

  • Every software load changes aircraft configuration
  • Verification is mandatory—not assumed
  • Preloaded LRUs cannot be assumed correct
  • AC 43-216A requirement: All software loading must be followed by configuration verification

4. Baselining Before Change — “Know Your Aircraft Before You Touch It”

A major focus of this program:

Baselining a line aircraft prior to software updates

  • Confirm current configuration
  • Validate compatibility of updates
  • Identify mixed configurations across fleet

This directly supports:

  • Service Bulletin compliance
  • Avoiding unintended system interactions
  • Maintaining continued airworthiness

5. Authorized Personnel Only — A Critical Safety Barrier

Not everyone should be performing software updates

Training reinforces:

  • Only authorized and trained personnel may load software
  • Unauthorized actions introduce:
  • Configuration errors
  • Security vulnerabilities
  • Regulatory non-compliance
  • AC explicitly states: Software loading must be performed by authorized and trained personnel only

6. Documentation & Recordkeeping — Software = Aircraft Part

Participants will learn:

  • Software changes require maintenance record entries
  • Entries must reference:
    • AMM
    • Service Bulletin
    • Source documentatio
  • 14 CFR §43.9 and operational recordkeeping requirements
AEA Member $179 | Non-Member $249