In aviation, investment into safety and modern technology are not just a desire but a necessity. Receiving a new multi-purpose avionics testing unit made possible through generous donations is a huge blessing and appreciation of our MAF Papua New Guinea engineering team.
Story by Mandy Glass
The VIAVI AVX-10K only arrived a few weeks ago. Pascal Muhlematter, MAF PNG’s Engineering Manager, describes it as a powerful tool capable of performing a myriad of tasks, marking a shift from outdated analogue devices to a compact, touchscreen-enabled device.
“The development can be compared to that of a tube television set to today's Smart TV,” said Pascal.
Efficiency and Integration
Maro Kopi, one of MAF PNG’s licenced avionic engineers, emphasises the integration capabilities of the new device, combining the functionalities of the IFR4000 and IFR6000.
“It saves me a great deal of changing boxes every now and then. I can just chance parameters and the test is ready to go,” said Maro.
Good tools are also always an appreciation to the engineers who use the tools.
From a quick airborne system auto-test to an in-depth troubleshooting, testing navigation, communication and instrument systems can now conveniently be done around the aircraft or in the cockpit from the touchscreen display or using a mobile device. Easy set-up, quick testing and reporting is transferable via USB, Ethernet and wireless, all done from a modern user interface, or the VIAVI Solutions Mobile Tech App.
Such efficiency becomes crucial in MAF's operation, where timely and accurate testing ensures the reliability of aircraft used for emergency flights and transporting essential supplies to hard-to-reach places.
Cost and Maintenance Savings
Pascal further explains the economic advantages of this unit. Consolidating multiple devices into one also reduces costs associated with calibration and maintenance.
“All equipment must be calibrated every two years. Having only one device will save us effort and costs,” said Pascal.
The difficulty in finding calibration services and spare parts for the outdated devices became more and more apparent, making the new device a timely and cost-effective solution.
Operational Impact
Samuel Dauth, another of MAF PNG’s avionics engineers, provides a poignant perspective on the operational challenges.
“If an airplane sits on the ground for a week, then the work isn't getting done either, it's waiting. And the people are waiting in the bush, and the missionaries are stuck out in the bush, too,” said Samuel.
In a region where flights serve critical purposes such as medevacs, any downtime due to outdated equipment becomes a significant burden. The new unit, with its advanced capabilities, ensures that the aircraft fleet remains operational, facilitating crucial missions and services.
Expressing Gratitude
As MAF PNG, we express gratitude to the donors of this modern equipment, recognising the impact of their contribution on the technicians. Samuel highlights the increased efficiency and motivation that come with having access to high-quality equipment.
“Good tools are also always an appreciation to the engineers who use the tools, and really encourages us, that the work we need to do, can now be done with decent equipment, which increases efficiency enormously.” said Samuel.
Transformative power of innovation and generosity
The investment into the VIAVI AVX-10K serves as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and generosity. The new avionics test device not only modernises the testing process but also plays a pivotal role in ensuring the continuous and efficient operation of aircraft dedicated to bringing help, hope and healing to those living in isolated areas where other means of transport are very limited.
As Pascal and Samuel express their gratitude, it becomes evident that this technological gift goes beyond the physical device; it is an investment in the safety, efficiency, and impact of aviation for MAF Papua New Guinea.