ATC
Avionics shops adjust to persistent downturn
In a down economy it usually makes sense to focus on the finer details of running a business.

In a down economy it usually makes sense to focus on the finer details of running a business. Instead of pipe wrenches, avionics installers are using Allen keys to strengthen and fine tune their strategies, relying, for example, on new and pending FAA regulations for RVSM, TAWS and ELTs to help propel them through the slowdown. The approach, according to managers at some of the largest avionics installation shops in the U.S., has been paying dividends by lessening the impact of revenue losses from other sources.

Midcoast Aviation, for one, saw a substantial portion of its completion business evaporate overnight when Bombardier decided in October to slow production of the Challenger 604 for the next four months. While the loss of that business certainly has hurt, Midcoast has been able to redirect its focus to other areas to soften the blow.