Prove you can do the work. CAET-Advanced validates hands-on competency through practical demonstration, a written exam, and an oral board — the same approach the military uses to qualify technicians on real systems.
CAET-Advanced is the second level of the Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician program. Unlike the base CAET — which validates foundational knowledge through a written exam — CAET-Advanced requires technicians to demonstrate competency through a three-part assessment: a hands-on practical qualification (PQS), a written exam, and an oral board.
The certification covers 65 practical tasks across 8 system categories, from wire harness fabrication to flight management systems. It aligns with Level 2 of the ASTM standard for aircraft electronics technicians and is built for techs who are actively working in Part 145 repair stations, enrolled in apprenticeship programs, or transitioning from military avionics roles.
CAET-Advanced doesn't just test what you know — it proves what you can do. Candidates complete all three components in sequence.
The PQS practical qualification covers these system areas. Each category contains specific tasks that technicians must demonstrate to an authorized evaluator.
AHRS, compass systems, pitot-static, smart probes, ADCs, and RVSM compliance.
FMS operation, database loading, navigation system integration, and GPS/WAAS.
Autopilot, flight director, yaw damper, servo systems, and AFCS integration.
Cabin management, connectivity (WiFi/Satcom/cellular), and system-level integration.
Harness assembly, connector termination, wire routing, lacing, shielding, and bonding.
Audio panels, intercom, VHF/HF comm, NAV receivers, and antenna systems.
Software loading, configuration management, technical documentation, and record keeping.
Transponders, ADS-B, TCAS/ACAS, FANS/CPDLC, and datalink systems.
The PQS practical qualification uses the same task-based sign-off approach proven by the U.S. military's Personnel Qualification Standards. Each task must be observed and verified by an authorized evaluator.
This isn't a one-day test — it's an ongoing demonstration of competency built into daily work at your shop or training program.
The technician performs a specific task (e.g., fabricating a wire harness, running a pitot-static check) during normal shop operations or structured training.
An authorized evaluator — a senior technician, inspector, or training lead at the candidate's shop — watches the work and confirms it meets the standard.
The evaluator signs and dates the specific task on the candidate's PQS qualification card, creating a documented trail of demonstrated competency.
Once every task across all 8 categories is signed off, the candidate is eligible to sit for the written examination, followed by the oral board.
CAET-Advanced is designed to integrate directly with the AEA Registered Apprenticeship Program. The PQS task categories align with apprenticeship on-the-job training (OJT) requirements, giving employers a structured way to track technician development and meet Department of Labor standards.
Repair stations enrolled in the AEA apprenticeship program can use CAET-Advanced as a milestone marker — when an apprentice earns their Advanced certification, it documents real, measurable progress toward journey-level competency.
Learn About AEA Apprenticeship →Unlike a multiple-choice-only certification, CAET-Advanced requires demonstrated performance. When a tech holds this cert, employers know they can work independently.
Positions you for lead technician and bench specialist roles. Shows employers you're not just learning — you've been evaluated and signed off on real systems.
The PQS model mirrors military qualification processes. For transitioning service members, CAET-Advanced translates existing skills into a civilian credential.
Maps to Level 2 of the ASTM standard for aircraft electronics technicians, giving the credential industry-wide weight.
For shop managers, CAET-Advanced provides a measurable benchmark for technician progression — documented task-by-task with evaluator sign-offs.
CAET-Advanced is the stepping stone to CAET-Pro — the highest level covering human factors, safety management, and professional leadership.
Three tiers aligned with the ASTM standard for aircraft electronics technicians
The CAET is more than just a certification — it's a commitment to professional, technical, and industry readiness.
For repair stations and technicians alike, it's a game-changer in workforce development.
Danny Santiago, Banyan AirCAET-Advanced requires the base CAET certification. If you haven't earned your CAET yet, that's where your journey begins — a written exam covering the foundational knowledge every avionics technician needs.
Yes, recertification is required every 3 years. You can recertify through AEA continuing education events and training courses, or by earning your CAET-Pro certification.
Contact Nick Brown, Director of Workforce Development, at 816-366-5102 or nickb@aea.net
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