Buying&Selling 2.qxp_Finance 22/02/2022 08:58 Page 1
BUYING & SELLING AIRCRAFT KEN ELLIOTT has more than 50 years of aviation experience focused on avionics, in General and Business Aviation. Having a broad understanding after working in several countries on many aircraft types and avionics systems, he has contributed to several work groups and committees, including for NextGen, Airport Lighting, Human Factors, Unmanned Aircraft and Low Vision Technology. In retirement, he is striving to give back the knowledge gained with an eye on aviation’s future direction.
Buying a Plane? Important Avionics Considerations Ken Elliott delves into business aircraft transactions from an avionics perspective, highlighting some important considerations for buyers... hile the tight market for new and preowned business aircraft remains, buyers may not find the exact aircraft meeting all of their needs and desires, including the avionics installed, the interior, the paint, and more. Focusing on avionics specifically, there is a strong likelihood that something will need to change, be added, or be upgraded during a transaction. It would therefore be helpful for buyers to know what the key areas are to focus on, both before and during a purchase. There are two aircraft zones for avionics: Cockpit and cabin. Understandably, the cabin attracts the most scrutiny from the buyer, simply because the passenger experience is crucial. Underlying that experience, though, is the ability of the aircraft to complete the mission, which partially depends upon the workings of the cockpit. As with any purchase, being a savvy buyer makes all the difference. Being somewhat educated on the aircraft industry, or trusting someone to represent you, will allow for an easier aircraft search and a smoother purchasing process. It is not possible to be knowledgeable of the
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38 Vol 26 Issue 3 2022 AVBUYER MAGAZINE
whole industry, but it is possible to focus on specific aircraft classes, quickly grasping the important buying information.
The Avionics Basics
From an avionics perspective, the basic systems are similar across all versions of business jet and turboprop, except for specific requirements covering transcontinental and regional flight routes, as well as operating certification classifications, such as Part 135 v 91/91K. Separately, smaller jets and most turboprops are certified for production and equipage under Part 23 (Normal Category), and larger aircraft are certified under Part 25 (Transport Category). The requirements of the avionics differ in design and operating requirements, but surprisingly the features offered by Part 23 avionics can often exceed those of Part 25. As a buyer you will quickly note that the avionicssuite providers can be counted on one hand, to include Collins Aerospace, Honeywell Aerospace, Garmin, and Universal Avionics. Many other providers exist who either do not manufacture the primary suite of avionics, or whose suites are not available as Part 25 versions. www.AVBUYER.com
