The Duncan Download Blog: Business Aviation Advice & Observations

Last month Duncan Aviation threw a party; and not just one party, but two. Team members from Battle Creek, Michigan, and Lincoln, Nebraska, came together with members of the Duncan family to commemorate Duncan Aviation’s 60th Anniversary.

They celebrated the values, spirit, and strong work ethic that formed the bedrock of the Duncan Aviation organization back in 1956 when Donald Duncan founded the company.

The Battle Creek celebration was held at the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo on Saturday, August 20, while the Lincoln team members gathered at the Strategic Air & Space Museum in Ashland on Friday, August 26.

Several members of the Duncan family, including Robert & Karen Duncan and Todd & Connie Duncan, attended the celebrations and addressed the team members present.

“When I started with the company, we were 400 people. Now we’re well over 2,200. That’s really great to celebrate,” said Todd, Duncan Aviation Chairman. “We are stronger than we’ve ever been and all of you are the reason why. Congratulations on 60 years.”

Robert Duncan, Chairman Emeritus, expressed his appreciation for the hard work that everyone at Duncan Aviation brings to their jobs. “I love the dedication and passion that people like you exhibit every day. You often work long and unusual hours in extreme conditions to do what needs to be done to make sure the aircraft is safe and ready to go. The results of your efforts, and those before you, can be seen in what Duncan Aviation has become.”

Duncan Aviation’s third maintenance facility in Provo will be hosting a 60th Anniversary dinner next month.

2016 is a special year. It is Duncan Aviation’s 60th year of helping business aircraft operators be safe, efficient and productive. For six decades, customers have asked us for solutions and services. We are celebrating our 60 years by telling the stories about the people of Duncan Aviation who listened and took action.

Celebrate with us by subscribing to the Duncan Download blog, following us on Facebook and Twitter (@DuncanAviation) and visiting our anniversary website at www.DuncanAviation.aero/60.

Securaplane (Meggitt) has released Service Letter, SL-9750W0370-24-13,1 which changes the cell block nut installation process to help prevent over torquing of the studs when installing the reblock kits in Securaplane batteries.

The heart of the revised procedure is to reduce the running torque, the torque needed to turn the Binx nut onto the stud until it contacts the washer on the cell to 15 in-lbs. If, during the installation, the running torque reaches 15 in-lbs., then the nut is to be removed, its threads cleaned, and reinstalled.

The final tightening torque remains the same as originally called for in the CMM (usually 32 or 35 in-lbs). The final torque becomes the sum of the running (twisting) torque, and tension torque as the nut tightens.

Originally the running torque to install the Binx nut was the same as the final torque. It was possible the running torque could reach the 35 in-lb. limit while installing the nut, with none of the torque being final, tightening torque. If this would happen, the running torque could create a broken stud.

This Service Letter procedure should eliminate any risk of a broken stud.

An aircraft charter company recently sent a Baker Audio Panel to our avionics instrument shop in Lincoln, Nebr., that was inop. We immediately sent a loaner back so the aircraft would not miss any flights. When the squawked unit was opened, Duncan Aviation avionics instrument technicians found it was full of corrosion in the back end.

On several make/model aircraft, the Baker Audio Panel sits directly below the windshield. And over time as condensation collects on the window, it has to drip somewhere. And that somewhere is directly on this unit below.

Although you cannot prevent corrosion, you can slow its growth by being aware of any moisture near avionics units. As condensation collects on the windshield, clean it off.

It is also a good idea to visual inspect the outside covers of the avionics units that sit under your aircraft’s windshield. If you see any evidence that water has been dripping on them, you can just about bet there will be evidence of corrosion on the inside. At your next scheduled maintenance, have these units sent to us for a thorough inspection and cleaning.

As for the unit above, we cleaned and repaired the circuit board and coated it with Humiseal for an extra barrier to the moisture.

Replacement Units On A Shelf

Don’t be fooled into thinking replacement avionics units sitting on a shelf are safe from corrosion just because they are not installed on an aircraft. Humidity is another cause of corrosion, especially if they are stored in coastal areas.

For more information on our repair capabilities, download the Avionics Instruments Information & Capabilities Facts Sheet or conduct an online search of our repair and overhaul capabilities.

Latest Edition

Read more about it in the August 2016 issue of the Duncan Intelligence

• Hawker Airbrake Woes
• Service Letter Issued To Prevent Over Torquing of Battery Studs
• Three Steps to One-Day Turntime on TDR-94/TDR-94D Transponders
• Window Condensation Can Cause Avionics Instrument Corrosion
• Falcon: Detailed Inspection of the Horizontal Box and Front/Rear Spars

The Duncan Aviation avionics instrument shop is now able to provide operators with TDR-94/TDR-94D transponder service that includes same-day evaluation and three-day turntimes, with AOG options available when needed.

Our technicians, having serviced the -003 TDR-94 units for the last several years, have developed a very efficient repair process that will even allow a one-day repair, provided the following steps are taken by the operator:  

1. Call Duncan Aviation Customer Account Reps to schedule the unit into shop. 800.562.6377 or 402.475.2611

2. Provide ID tag information ahead of time. This gives us time to ensure we have parts on hand when the transponder arrives.

3. Ship your unit to this address:

Duncan Aviation 

Shipping and Receiving

4001 N Park Rd

Lincoln, NE  68500

We offer the repair and service of these units at our main avionics instrument shop in Lincoln, Nebraska, as well as through our satellite avionics facilities located throughout the United States.

We are also able to modify earlier transponders to the -500-501 series, which will meet the ADS-B mandate for 2020 when the unit is properly installed and certified.

The Rockwell Collins TDR-94/TDR-94D transponder is a solid-state, crystal-controlled receiver/transmitter specifically designed for TCAS-II-equipped business aircraft.  We are authorized to repair and service transponders with the Rockwell Collins part numbers of 622-9352-002 through -008; -108; -207; -308-311; -408-411; -500-501 and 622-9210-002 through -008; -108; -207; -308-311; -408-411; -500-501.

A Citation CJ3 Duncan Aviation has been retrofitting since mid-May with Rockwell Collins’ Pro Line Fusion flight deck upgrade took to the skies above Lincoln last week as this first-ever installation began its flight testing phase.

“The system performed flawlessly on our one-hour, 10-minute (initial) flight in the CJ3,” said Scott Simpson, principal flight test pilot for Rockwell Collins. “The test flight included three approaches with synthetic vision displayed for both pilots, graphically-entered flight plan updates, and other avionics checkout procedures. In addition to ensuring ADS-B compliance, owners who upgrade will find it an absolute joy to fly.”

Duncan Aviation Captain Jon Kroesche flew second in commad during the flight. "The Proline Fusion upgrade is a joy to fly. There is a wealth of information right at your fingertips. The three large touchscreens allow for easily changing flights and flight plans. This will be a great product to show off at the upcoming NBAA Conference in Orlando." 

Announced last fall, Duncan Aviation will complete certification for Pro Line Fusion flight deck in the CJ3 by the end of 2016, providing operators with a new aftermarket option for meeting mandates while enhancing their ownership and flying experience. The upgrade replaces the factory-installed portrait displays with larger 14.1-inch landscape touchscreen primary flight displays. The new system includes intuitive, touch-interactive maps, and easy-to-use icons, giving the pilot the ability to control items on the screen through touch.  Also, it eliminates the need for Flight Management System (FMS) control display units originally installed in the pedestal.

“The Pro Line Fusion flight deck upgrade has been met with much enthusiasm from CJ3 operators,” says Jeff Simmons, a Duncan Aviation Avionics Sales Rep. “They are excited about transforming their aircraft and their flight experience while meeting the upcoming NextGen mandates. Flight testing of the system is an exciting milestone in this installation and certification process. The collaboration, effort and professionalism shown between the Rockwell Collins and Duncan Aviation teams have been impressive and are the reasons the program has successfully reached this point.”

To see progress of the CJ3 Pro Line Fusion flight deck upgrade, and to see more information about the upgrade and the 25 early adopter incentive packages for interested operators, visit www.DuncanAviation.aero/cj3prolinefusion

On a weekly basis, I travel to meet with some of the most interesting and influential people in our industry; individuals who work hard providing leadership for business aviation’s powerful associations and lobbying efforts, key customers who understand the benefits of business aircraft ownership and aviation enthusiasts who simply love to fly. I truly enjoy the people in our industry and the support they have shown us for years.

Rarely does a week go by when I don’t hear someone mention a Duncan Aviation team member by name. Describing their experience at one of our facilities, they let me know they consider our people experts, resources and friends. We’re serving customers in a very real way, letting them know we value their business and helping them operate their aircraft with success.

Our reputation not only represents the highest in quality work, it is one company among many that stand united in a show of support for the future of business aviation. Every Duncan Aviation team member comes to work knowing that their dedication, hard work and knowledge matter not only to their customers and their company, but to the entire industry.

Watch this video below and listen to several Duncan Aviation team members speak with pride about what quality means to them. 

2016 is a special year. It is Duncan Aviation’s 60th year of helping business aircraft operators be safe, efficient and productive. For six decades, customers have asked us for solutions and services. We are celebrating our 60 years by telling the stories about the people of Duncan Aviation who listened and took action.

Celebrate with us by subscribing to the Duncan Download blog, following us on Facebook and Twitter (@DuncanAviation) and visiting our anniversary website at www.DuncanAviation.aero/60.

Today, Duncan Aviation opens a new office at the San Antonio International Airport in Texas. In an effort to position our skilled avionics technician in closer proximity to customers, Greg Ashpaugh, is moving to San Antonio and will be the Manager of the new work-away location.

“Over the years, numerous customers have asked us to consider a work-away location in San Antonio,” says Matt Nelson, Manager of Satellite Operations. “After assessing the city and airport, we agree that San Antonio is a great place for a Duncan Aviation technician. Not only does the mix of aircraft based at that airport closely match our business model, but also the city of San Antonio is attractive because of its strong, diverse economic base.”

Greg Ashpaugh, San Antonio Manager

Greg—until recently Crew-Lead at the Dallas satellite avionics facility—is looking forward to working on customers’ aircraft in and around San Antonio. While working as an aircraft engine mechanic on E-2 Hawkeyes and C-2 Greyhounds in the US Navy for six years, Greg earned his A&P license at the Sierra Academy of Aeronautics in Oakland, California.

After his service, Greg worked at various avionics shops in the Dallas area before hiring on at the Duncan Aviation Dallas Satellite avionics facility 13 years ago.

“In addition to really liking what I do, I think Duncan Aviation is a great place to work,” says Greg. “The company takes care of us, and it has been very, very good to me.”

From the Dallas Satellite facility, Greg traveled to work on aircraft in San Antonio, Austin, and Fort Worth in Texas, as well as to New Orleans, Louisiana. He anticipates that he’ll continue to travel from his new work-away location. “We’re here for our customers, wherever here is,” says Greg.

Located on the southeast side of the San Antonio International Airport, the new office will let Greg focus on line maintenance, AOG, and small install work.

“We’re easing into this new work-away location,” says Matt, “And we’ll hire additional team members as customer needs and response requires.”

Duncan Aviation's Avionics Satellite shops are strategically based at more than 25 business aviation airports across the United States. Each location is interdependent, sharing staff and resources to support customers anywhere they land, live or hangar their aircraft.

For more inforamation, download the Satellite Avioincs fact sheet. 

501-1228-04: Lead Acid Emergency Power Supply

If you are waiting more than two weeks for an offer on your available aircraft avionics inventory, you are waiting too long. 

The business aviation industry is growing rapidly and the demand for good, serviceable avionics parts to support customers’ current and future needs is strong. So Duncan Aviation’s Parts & Rotables Sales has stepped up efforts and increased on-hand inventory of avionics parts for all makes of business aircraft, including modifications packages removed for avionics upgrades.

Every day, customers reach out to Avionics Acquisitions Manager, Jamie Blackman, and her team offering a list of inventory to purchase. Most lists average 20-50 part numbers, but can be as high as 5,000.

• Aircraft inventory companies that purchase aircraft to part-out offer us avionics units, knowing our customer base will likely be able to use the inventory.
• DOMs will sell their rotable pools if their aircraft is traded in for a larger or newer aircraft. These pools consist of good, serviceable units they no longer need. So they sell the units and then turn around and buy inventory for their new rotable needs.

“We have no limits on how large or small of a list we’ll buy,” says Jamie. “If a customer presents us with a list, we’ll take it all whether we have repair capabilities or not.” This makes it easier for the customer, she says, saving them the time it takes to go to multiple outlets to sell their inventory.

501-1712-02: Emergency Power Supply	071-01519-0101: King Ant/RCVR/XMTR	622-1270-001: Collins Transponder

Best Price First

But they won’t haggle on price and Jamie explains why, “We always offer our best price out of the gate, never low-balling or engaging in time-consuming negotiations. We won’t waste your valuable time exchanging emails or phone calls to come to pricing terms. By offering your the fairest price upfront, we save ourselves time and make you money.”

William Calgagni of the Calin Corporation explains why he selected Duncan Aviation to sell his avionics parts. “Out of the three companies I contacted, Duncan Aviation was the easiest to work with and the best fit for my needs, offering a competitive price.”

Jamie knows by offering the fairest price upfront the seller is more likely to come back again the next time they have additional units for sale. William agrees, “The next time I have any avionics units to sell, Duncan Aviation will be on the short list again.”

“We are more than happy to explain how we arrived at our offer,” explains Jamie. When a list is received, it is examined and compared to all of the historical data that has been collected by Duncan Aviation. Each Individual part number is researched to find sales history as well as repair capabilities and average repair costs. Even our own stock quantities are examined to determine the current number of units on hand. All of this information together provides the most accurate fair market value and is used to formulate the purchase offer extended to the customer.

Our offers are competitive and, in most cases, higher than others because we have more than 45,000 different repair manuals and a large team of avionics repair professionals. These in-house repair capabilities keep costs under control, allowing us to offer more money for the units. And our wide and active customer base ensures that we are able to maintain multiple units in our inventory.

Best Price Fast

071-01550-0101: King Radar Antenna

Not only will you get our best offer out of the gate, you’ll have that offer within one to two business days of receiving the list. There is no waiting up to two weeks to hear back about an offer or to find out that most of the list is rejected. We have a proprietary computer program that compares individual part numbers to Duncan Aviation’s entire historical experience with each unit. With a click of a button, we are able to replicate the thoroughness of manual line-by-line research, but have results within a matter of a few hours.

Over the past three years, the Duncan Aviation Parts & Rotable Sales has added over $2.5 million in avionics inventory. And recently started an Avionics Purchasing Program to build an inventory of avionics units for which we don’t have repair capabilities. “The market demand for these newer systems is beginning to grow,” says Jamie. “Our customers need these units and we want to be able meet those needs by being their best source.”

WeBuyAvionics@DuncanAviation.com

If you have avionics inventory, whether it is one unit or thousands of piece parts, we will be the first to respond and with the best offer. When receiving your payment you have the option of cash, trade or putting credit on your account for future Duncan Aviation work, anywhere in the company.

Contact Duncan Aviation to sell your excess avionics inventory by emailing an Excel spreadsheet of your parts list, including part numbers to WeBuyAvionics@DuncanAviation.com. We are also interested in purchasing surplus inventories of airframe and engine accessory components.

Duncan Aviation today announced that the company plans to build a new business aircraft maintenance, modifications and paint complex at its Provo, Utah, location. The expansion will include a large maintenance and modifications center and an innovative paint facility.

Building on nearly 45 acres of land at the Provo Municipal Airport, Duncan Aviation will add nearly 220,000-square-feet of buildings with its 166,000-square-foot maintenance and modifications center and its 53,000-square-foot paint facility.

The maintenance and completions facility will have large hangar spaces along with backshop and office space.

The new paint structure will have the latest down-draft air flow technology, including automatic monitoring and alarms, to provide the best paint environment possible for aircraft. To increase efficiency, the paint hangar is designed to accommodate multiple aircraft at once, utilizing a two-zone airflow system. With this design, Duncan Aviation paint teams can perform stripping, sanding, painting and detail work on multiple aircraft simultaneously.

The facility will allow input of some of the largest business aircraft in use today, including Gulfstream’s 550, Bombardier’s Global Express and Dassault’s Falcon 7X.

Duncan Aviation plans to break ground in the first quarter of 2017. The expansion will cost nearly $50 million and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2019.

“We consistently hear from operators in the Western United States that they would like to see more investment in a Duncan Aviation location closer to their home base,” says Aaron Hilkemann. “The Provo area is the perfect complement to our other full-service facilities in Battle Creek, Michigan, and Lincoln, Nebraska. That is why we intially started our Provo facility. Although the economy prevented us from building an all-new facility there at the time we initially planned to, we are pleased to finally begin work on the infrastructure needed to care for upcoming maintenance and completions demand from in the area and around the world.”

On August 1, 2010, Duncan Aviation opened its doors in Provo. Since then, the Duncan Aviation Provo team has provided major and minor hourly and calendar inspections, line-level engine and avionics support, and interior work for business aircraft from across Europe, the Pacific Rim and the Americas.

“Six years ago, 14 Duncan Aviation team members ventured west to start Duncan Aiation's newest heavy maintenance location,” says Bill Prochazka, Chief Operating Officer of Duncan Aviation’s Provo location. “We were met with enthusiasm and professionalism from every direction, through our discussions with the State, Utah County and Provo City.  Today we are 40 strong, on our way to 400+.  It's an exciting time to be in the Business Aviation Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul sector, and to be a part of this great company as we provide high quality and responsive service to corporate business jet operators from around the world.”

In addition to this upcoming expansion, Duncan Aviation has invested nearly $200 million in facilities, tooling and new capabilities and nearly $48 million in training over the last 20 years. “We are dedicated to business aviation, our customers and team members and every decision we make is made with them and the future in mind,” Hilkemann says.