For Louis, one of the most important shifts is happening before a unit even arrives at the repair bench. Historical repair data and reliability trends are giving repair organisations a clearer picture of recurring failures and likely component demand, helping them prepare the material and capability needed before it becomes critical. 

“By identifying recurring failure patterns and anticipating component demand, we can ensure that spare parts, consumables, and repair capability are available before a component reaches a critical stage.”  

That ability to anticipate rather than react runs throughout Louis’ perspective. It applies equally to the supply chain. Being part of AJW Group gives AJW Technique access to global supply chain resources, inventory and established OEM relationships, creating more options when traditional sources become constrained. Where obsolescence presents a challenge, serviceable material recovered through aircraft teardown programmes can also help keep mature platforms supported. 

“The key is being proactive rather than waiting for a shortage to impact a customer’s turnaround time,” says Louis. 

Technology has an important role, but Louis’ comments are grounded in the reality of the repair shop. Automated test equipment can narrow a failure down to specific areas of a unit, but experienced technicians are still needed to interpret those results and pinpoint the root cause. Environmental stress testing can reveal intermittent faults that might otherwise remain hidden, while manual troubleshooting remains an essential part of the process. 

That makes retaining technical knowledge particularly important. Avionics technicians today may find themselves working across legacy analogue systems and highly digital architectures. Formal training matters, but Louis believes some of the most valuable expertise is still developed at the bench. At AJW Technique, experienced technicians play a key role in passing that knowledge on through mentoring and hands-on coaching. 

And when it comes to turnaround time, Louis makes an important distinction. A fast diagnosis does not necessarily result in a fast repair. 

“For most avionics repair organisations, the greatest challenge is what happens after testing identifies a fault. The real bottleneck is often sourcing material quickly enough to complete the repair.” 

For AJW Technique, that means looking beyond an individual repair order and understanding what is likely to be needed next. Forecasting repair volumes and material requirements allows inventory to be positioned accordingly, helping reduce unexpected material holds and keep units moving through the workshop. 

It is a practical view of where avionics MRO is heading: sophisticated technology undoubtedly matters, but so does knowing what tends to fail, having the material available to fix it, and ensuring the technical knowledge behind the repair is not lost.

Read the full AviTrader MRO360 feature, “Avionic Repairs: Technology, talent and the turnaround challenge”, to hear from Louis and fellow industry experts on the changing demands of avionics repair.