A day in the life of an avionics repair technician

Nicolas, can you tell us about your career journey?

My career at Thales started in 2002 after I completed my electronics diploma. I joined Thales’ Customer Support Center (CSC) in Châtellerault, initially on a temporary basis, before becoming a permanent member of the team. I began working in retrofitting avionics equipment, then gradually moved onto more complex avionics systems as my expertise grew. Today, I specialize in repairing the displays in helicopter cockpits, ensuring that everything from engine parameters to fuel levels is accurately displayed to pilots.

What are the key responsibilities of your role?

My job is to repair defective avionics equipment, primarily focusing on cockpit displays that are essential for flight safety. This includes diagnosing faults, performing repairs, and running tests to verify that everything complies with technical and safety standards. I also work closely with product support engineers to troubleshoot and improve the equipment we repair.

What skills are essential in your work?

To succeed in avionics repair, you must be extremely responsible and precise. There is no room for error when it comes to the equipment we repair. Being able to work meticulously, check each step of the repair process, and constantly be curious about new technologies is essential. Teamwork and communication with others are also crucial as we rely on each other to solve complex issues.

How do you approach the repair of avionics equipment?

On receiving a piece of equipment, we perform initial tests to identify the failure. Based on the technical documentation, we then order necessary parts and proceed with the repair. After the components are fixed, I ensure the assembly is complete before conducting a final round of tests. The final check is critical as it ensures that everything works according to the required standards before being sent back to the customer for installation.

Can you describe the work environment at CSC?

It's great working here. Despite the size of the CSC, everyone is closely connected, and there’s a strong sense of solidarity. We share technical knowledge freely, which helps newcomers quickly adapt to the work. When I first started, I had the support of an expert who guided me through the learning process until I became fully autonomous.

Are there similarities between your role in avionics and other fields you’ve worked in?

Absolutely. Both avionics repair and my earlier work with electronics require great precision. In both fields, you must be meticulous with assembly, be able to troubleshoot issues, and maintain cleanliness in the environment. The key difference is the scale and complexity—while avionics are larger, they have similar levels of intricacy and need for attention to detail.

What were you doing in the photo above?

I was testing an avionics system called the Horizon. This system helps pilots determine the aircraft’s position in relation to gravity. I simulated different flight angles to measure the drift and ensured the system was within acceptable tolerance levels. This kind of testing ensures that pilots get accurate information even when the aircraft is in extreme positions.

From avionics repair to the safety of helicopters, Nicolas applies meticulous craftsmanship to each repair task, ensuring that every piece of equipment works perfectly. His role at Thales highlights the critical importance of precision in the aviation industry.