Business & Technical Sessions

The opening Regulatory Rise & Shine offers a thoughtful, substantive and insightful source of regulatory news and information that affects you, your customers and your business. This Rise & Shine is dedicated to the most current aviation news, information and events. The specific topics are driven by the regulatory agenda, international agreements and new technologies being introduced.

• Opening Ceremony
• Chairman's Welcome
• President's State of the Association Address
• AEA Awards
• Keynote Speaker: Gene Marks

The New Product Introductions always is one of the most popular sessions at this annual event, but it has quickly evolved into a must-see, cornerstone showcase in recent years. The event is now the primary launching pad for companies to unveil the latest and greatest in new avionics products and services coming to market for the current year, and more and more industry leaders are taking notice.

So what will be the most-exciting new product announced in 2021? see more

Dual-band ADS-B solutions, 5G-proof Terrain Series Radar Altimeters, 2301 product. SKYTRAC's Iridium Certus Constellation and Flight Data System's SENTRY CVFDR recorder.

New capabilities and installation information, including the latest autopilot integration certification(s) and details on the removal of backup instruments and vacuum system with recent certification of internal battery.

Installation training and configuration for IFD Series and ATLAS FMS, plus introduction to Interactive Installation Manual and 10-Module Dealer Training Curriculum.

This course will show the advanced capabilities in solving both integration issues and new functions to get aircraft in the air quickly with the new functions your customers want.

Introduction to the T-RX Avionics Tester and use of the tester on an actual turbine aircraft. Hands-on training includes nav, comm, transponder, ADS-B, TCAS and DME tests. Proper use of the transponder internal antenna and antenna coupler included. Participants will receive a training certificate from CCX Technologies for two hours of training. This is an off-site session being held at Business Jet Center at Love Field, 8611 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75209. Shuttle to/from provided by CCX.

Introduction to installation, operation, and maintaining the Citation Pro Line Fusion system. Additional information includes system architecture, subscription services, CASP Program, documentation/publications and customer support. This session is a prerequisite for the necessary follow-on training needed to be eligible for the sale and installation of Citation Air Pro Line Fusion equipment.

Latest news on the S-TEC 3100 and an in-depth look at an the autopilot installation.

This course will provide students an overview of IFC concepts for installing, configuring, optimizing, operating and troubleshooting IFC systems. This will enable attendees to gain an understanding on the basic airborne networks, IFC systems and the services they provide. Topics include: in-flight connectivity overview, satellite connectivity, air-to-ground connectivity, system function for each system of an IFC network and aircraft IFC network systems and services.

How to properly and accurately perform an electrical load analysis.

Three simple ways to close more sales and train the clients you have to promote your shop and give you referrals. These three simple strategies can dramatically increase your sales without spending more money.

Technical overview of Satcom Direct’s new Plane Simple Ku Satcom System as we discuss the specifications of the system’s two line-replaceable units, the common wiring, installation best practices, antenna alignment, and system configuration.

This introductory course is intended to provide installers with an overview of the benefits, ease of installation and seamless operation of SmartSky Network’s Air-to-Ground Wi-Fi network for aviation. Leveraging 5G technologies, SmartSky's ATG connectivity solution delivers unprecedented speed and capacity and best-in-class experience that allows users to do everything in the air that they take for granted on the ground.

An entertaining class to help sales and installers understand the needs and wants of both pilots and owner/operators. Focuses on how upgrading to ADS-B and WAAS significantly improves safety and saves money by talking the buzzwords and language that pilots use.

• WAAS versus GPS approaches, improved safety and cost savings.
• ADS-B versus TIS, TAS, TCAS.
• FIS-B versus XM Weather and onboard radar.
• Discussion on the options available.

An informative and highly interactive presentation offering strategic solutions to middle management and executive leadership on effective business development and personal growth. Learn how to set vision with clarity, how great leaders inspire action and the development of a mission, value propositions and organizational goals directly tailored to the aviation and aerospace sector.

After showing videos of live aircraft squawks, this class will work through symptoms shown and talk through resolutions.

An in-depth look at the new Flex MD23 Custom Function Display

Regulations and proper testing procedures for pitot-static and transponder systems.

David Mou, Business Strategist, presents Aircraft Lighting International's: LED Lighting Primer, including ALI's newest interior and exterior FAA-PMA products.

Using strategic communications to position your aviation company in the ever-changing and turbulent digital age. Open discussion about how to market in a post-pandemic aviation environment. Learn if your business image is everything it could be by discussing comprehensive strategic initiatives to maximize combining the social space with traditional marketing initiatives. Objectives include navigating today's best practices in social media, search engine optimization and other cost-effective advertising strategies. Also, learn about exclusive co-op advertising opportunities offered to shops by various manufacturers to help you get the most bang for your buck.

Robotic Skies has partnered with the unmanned industry’s leading airframe and component manufacturers. Come learn about some of the general maintenance procedures we’ve developed for our key OEM partners as well as applicable airworthiness practices and developing regulatory requirements.

Highly sensitive ADS-B ground stations can create challenges for aviation maintenance technicians when doing altimeter and transponder checks. Even a small amount of RF leakage can create false intruders and earn you a notice from your FSDO. Join VIAVI Solutions for a discussion on how to effectively maximize RF attenuation and minimize RF leakage using VIAVI Solutions antenna couplers. Also, exciting new product updates.

Returning to something that is familiar and comfortable … to be doing something you had stopped doing for a period of time – a return to one’s normal, healthy, functioning state after an interruption or setback. Those words define the spirit of this year’s AEA First-Nighter Event and its theme: “Back in the Saddle Again!”

All attendees and exhibitors on-site in Dallas are invited to attend this event at the Hilton Anatole Hotel as we get “Back in the Saddle Again” to safely celebrate the aviation industry coming back strong.

The event will include drinks, refreshments and entertainment: Your convention badge is required for entry.

Advance your career and industry knowledge by earning a certification provided by ASTM's National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies. These certifications demonstrate the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promote integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce.

The aircraft electronics technician certificate and endorsements are industry-defined mechanisms to identify professionals who demonstrate their knowledge through testing and commit themselves to the aerospace industry. Associations and professionals across every industry use these certifications to recognize qualified and competent individuals. In fact, the FAA formally recognizes the AET certification as equivalent to formal training when showing eligibility for the issuance of a repairman certificate. Exams are free for AEA Convention attendees, courtesy of the AEA Educational Foundation.

This regulatory session will focus on the certification and operation of repair stations and the installation and maintenance of avionics systems. The FAA will attend and present the latest in policy and guidance that affects the operation of your business. The FAA also will discuss the policies, guidance and challenges the industry faces with the continued airworthiness of aircraft and avionics systems. You should attend this session if you are involved in the installation and maintenance of avionics systems.

As with any system upgrade, there is a learning curve. This session will cover LED upgrade basics and work through solutions for frequently encountered challenges.

Learn about AIRS-400, the new flight data monitoring hardware, and how it fits into the ecosystem of connectivity and flight data monitoring solutions.

Product information and installation training for the Astronautics RoadRunner Electronic Flight Instrument.

Focus on creating and maximizing marketing tools such as social media, content marketing, and your website to increase brand awareness and help build or expand your sales pipeline. Geared for the sales professional, aircraft mechanic, small-business owner, avionics technician, or anyone looking to learn the basics on how to scale your existing marketing efforts. Looking to add these tools to your current sales strategy? A plan to increase your 2021 sales will be reviewed.

CPDLC FANS and ATN general information, troubleshooting and installation.

EDMO Distributors provides configuration definition and distribution of the Flight Data Systems HHMPI CVR and FDR downloading system. This session will focus on the usage of the HHMPI to download data from an onboard recorder. The session will cover configuration, connection and downloading procedures.

Latest news on the S-TEC 3100 and an in-depth look at an the autopilot installation.

Familiarize dealers and operators with the tools that enable crucial and productive conversations throughout the life cycle of the in-flight connectivity solution, from successful installation through entry into service to ongoing maintenance and customer success.

Regulations and proper testing procedures for pitot-static and transponder systems.

Benefits of upgrading your customers legacy audio control panel & PAC45-series special mission audio systems from the quotation process to the configurations and installation considerations.

Installation procedures and approvals for installing iPad mounts and using Guardian Avionics hardware to show MFD on the iPad.

Session will focus on training operators with the ability to perform mandatory recorder intelligibility readouts, as well as flight data monitoring and flight operations quality assurance services for customers.

Whether you currently manage an avionics shop or aspire to own or operate an aviation business one day, this training session is for you. This course will prepare the attendee with the knowledge to identify risk, review supply chain contracts, and recognize situations where they are most likely to be sued. Understanding which insurance coverages you need and which ones you don't will save you premium dollars and provide confidence your business is protected.

Discuss the availability for recruiting, hiring, and employing qualified military veterans through the NextOp network. NextOp, are employment coordinator coachs and mentors dedicated to serving middle-enlisted service members in their career search. The aim is to align the right candidates to the right opportunities as talented young veterans prepare for, apply and interview for positions. NextOp, is a nonprofit founded in 2015 with a mission of bridging the gap between their diverse, talented, veteran candidates and companies that value veterans on their team.

Avionics shops using Panel Planner will learn how to get more done, faster. This will be a hands-on training. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a new user, this session will show you the power under the hood. Stop and learn.

• Light lunch will be served in Exhibit Hall.
• AEA Educational Foundation Silent Auction begins in Exhibit Hall

Advance your career and industry knowledge by earning a certification provided by ASTM's National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies. These certifications demonstrate the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promote integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce.

The aircraft electronics technician certificate and endorsements are industry-defined mechanisms to identify professionals who demonstrate their knowledge through testing and commit themselves to the aerospace industry. Associations and professionals across every industry use these certifications to recognize qualified and competent individuals. In fact, the FAA formally recognizes the AET certification as equivalent to formal training when showing eligibility for the issuance of a repairman certificate. Exams are free for AEA Convention attendees, courtesy of the AEA Educational Foundation.

Introduction to installation, operation, and maintaining the KA Fusion EDS system. Additional information includes system architecture, subscription services, CASP Program, documentation/publications and customer support. This session is a prerequisite for the necessary follow-on training needed to be eligible for the sale and installation of King Air Pro Line Fusion equipment.

Installation, configuration, and certification training on the TXi and NXi systems, GI 275, G5 and GFC 500, GFC 600, and relevant topics for dealers.

Unique and focused approach to understanding OEM wiring diagrams. Comprehensive course dedicated to learning the specific practices used by the manufacturer for recording their electrical wiring diagrams. This is an intensive session with active classroom participation. Considered essential for all proactive technicians who desire a stronger foundation in OEM-specific wiring systems and troubleshooting/support documentation.

Three simple ways to close more sales and train the clients you have to promote your shop and give you referrals. These three simple strategies can dramatically increase your sales without spending more money.

An entertaining class to help sales and installers understand the needs and wants of both pilots and owner/operators. Focuses on how upgrading to ADS-B and WAAS significantly improves safety and saves money by talking the buzzwords and language that pilots use.

• WAAS versus GPS approaches, improved safety and cost savings.
• ADS-B versus TIS, TAS, TCAS.
• FIS-B versus XM Weather and onboard radar.
• Discussion on the options available.

Discussion of software and Just In Time Parts – the purpose of software, how to maximize software potential, inventory preparedness, lean practices and inventory control basics.