The Importance of Proper Equipment During Air Data Tests
Improving the Quality and Reliability of Pitot/Static Tests with the Right Adapters
Imagine a mechanic using a needle meant for a basketball, jamming it into a static port, sealing it off with rubber tubing and tape, and hoping for an accurate pitot/static test. Sounds ridiculous, right? Unfortunately, it happens more often than you'd think, leading to unreliable test results, compromised safety, and the potential for costly damage to the aircraft. As members of the aviation industry, we all have an inherent duty to adhere to the highest level of quality to ensure the safety of the passengers who fly onboard. Unfortunately, we often see where corners are cut to save time and money, leading to substandard results.
At Texas Aerospace Technologies, we believe in doing things the right way. That means using properly designed adapters that are made specifically for each aircraft; whether it's a corporate jet, helicopter, or commercial platform, we have a solution for you.
The Real Cost of Cutting Corners
Using makeshift solutions—like surgical tubing, putty, or duct tape—might seem like a quick fix, but the risks far outweigh any convenience:
- Incorrect Readings – Faulty seals or improper connections can lead to inaccurate airspeed and altitude indications.
- Damage to Aircraft Components – A single mistake could mean repair costs of tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair or replace damaged components — a hefty price for not using the correct adapter.
- Safety Hazards – A miscalibrated air data system can lead to many issues within the aircraft, ultimately creating a safety issue for all passengers onboard. Since the safety of the passengers is the most critical aspect of performing maintenance on an aircraft, why risk this by using improper equipment.
- Unhappy Customers - Cutting these corners and making mistakes with air data tests can lead to unnecessary repeat maintenance on aircraft, causing unscheduled downtime. Customers expect us to get it right the first time so that they can rely on the operational availability of their aircraft.
The Right Solution: DMA Testers & Adapter Kits
Texas Aerospace Technologies has an industry-leading lineup of Air Data Test sets and a full line of aircraft-specific adapters to ensure your pitot/static tests are accurate, reliable, and safe. These solutions are designed to:
✔ Ensure a secure, leak-free connection
✔ Prevent damage to delicate aircraft systems
✔ Provide repeatable, precise test results
✔ Improve technician efficiency by having reliable equipment to complete the work
✔ Work with many different aircraft types—from helicopters to private jets to commercial aircraft
Don't Be "That Guy"
We've all seen it—the guy who thinks a quick patch job will do the trick. Maybe it works today, but tomorrow it could mean thousands of dollars in damages or worse—putting lives at risk.
At Texas Aerospace Technologies, we believe in doing it right the first time. Contact us today to learn more about our industry leading line up of D'Marchiori (DMA) Air Data Test sets and the full line of aircraft specific adapter kits. Because when it comes to air data checks, precision isn't just important—it's everything.
