TechnologyAugust 17, 2026

avionics

ay-vee-ON-iks

Definition

The electronic systems and devices used on aircraft, including navigation, communications, and flight control systems.

Etymology

The word is a portmanteau created in the mid-20th century by combining 'aviation' and 'electronics' to describe the growing array of electronic equipment used in modern flight.

In the news

The article mentions that Merlin needs access to aircraft avionics specifications from manufacturers to integrate its autonomous flight software. This highlights the technical dependency between software developers and traditional aircraft makers.

Merlin Clears AI Certification Hurdle in New Zealand

Read the full article ↗

Leeham News and Analysis

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