Back to InsightsAvionics Upgrades on Older Aircraft Make Sense
The first time you drove a car with a backup camera, it probably felt like a helpful piece of modern technology. Now, it feels as standard as a rearview mirror. You might take it for granted until you drive a car without it. Would you buy a used vehicle without one?
The same principle applies to avionics on older aircraft. Features that start as “new” eventually become standard. New owners expect them when selecting an aircraft to buy.
Meeting Buyer Expectations in a Competitive Market
Owners must consider this factor when preparing an older airplane to sell. A Gulfstream GV owner might rely on the original avionics, but a prospective buyer may hesitate because of them.
At Hatt & Associates, we advise clients to evaluate whether retrofitting avionics makes sense. This decision impacts both the schedule and the preparation for listing the plane.
An owner might not recoup the exact cost of upgrading a Gulfstream GV to LCD screens or 5G-tolerant radar altimeters. However, these upgrades often ensure a quick transaction. Owners must know which missing features cause buyers to skip their aircraft in inventory searches.
From “Nice-to-Have” to Baseline Requirement
This shift mirrors the era when ADS-B equipment started as a “plus.” As ADS-B became standard, it became less noteworthy. Today, we see this trend with high-speed connectivity (Ka-band/Starlink). Now, lacking these capabilities lowers the aircraft’s value. New owners know they must spend money to meet the standard.
Even in today’s balanced market, “negative” features prevent quick sales and reduce overall value. This happens even if engines are new and operating hours are low.
Navigating Component Obsolescence
You should also consider upgrades even if you aren’t selling. As avionics systems age, manufacturers reduce support for replacement parts, eventually ceasing it completely. We use our MRO contacts to update owners on systems facing reduced support.
Finding replacement parts for older systems is challenging. Once a system loses OEM support, locating the right part takes time – if you can find it at all. Component obsolescence affects aviation just like other businesses. The right part might be halfway around the world, with no quick delivery option.
Strategic Fleet Planning
Whether you are considering selling an aircraft or not, it makes sense to talk to one of our advisers to discuss its future resale value and where avionics upgrades or other modifications make sense. With turnaround times at MROs still high, a conversation should be had now to minimize downtime. Start planning now for maximum benefit in the future.