Astronics Corporation Strengthens FAA Certification Capabilities Through Strategic Acquisition of Envoy Aerospace
Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq: ATRO), a global leader in advanced technologies for the aerospace, defense, and mission-critical markets, has announced the acquisition of Envoy Aerospace, a prominent FAA Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) services provider. The acquisition represents a pivotal move in Astronics’ ongoing strategy to expand its core competencies in aircraft connectivity, in-seat power systems, and cabin modifications, reinforcing its commitment to delivering comprehensive certification solutions to the aviation industry.
The purchase, valued at approximately $8 million, includes the integration of nine highly specialized professionals from Envoy Aerospace into the Astronics workforce. This experienced team will contribute their deep expertise in FAA certification and regulatory compliance, thereby enhancing Astronics’ ability to deliver fully approved and field-ready systems for commercial and business aviation customers worldwide.
Unlocking Greater FAA Certification Capabilities
Organizational Designation Authorization (ODA) is a key designation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that enables approved organizations to perform critical certification functions on behalf of the FAA, such as issuing Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) and Parts Manufacturer Approvals (PMAs). These certifications are essential for installing new technologies on aircraft, particularly those involving complex systems like connectivity solutions, electrical power, avionics upgrades, and cabin reconfigurations.
By acquiring Envoy Aerospace, Astronics significantly increases its internal ODA service capacity at a time when FAA-authorized certification resources are in high demand and short supply. This internal capability allows Astronics to accelerate the timeline for certifying its own products, including inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems, power supply solutions, and other integrated technologies, giving the company a competitive edge in the marketplace.
“We believe this acquisition is a major strategic step forward for Astronics,” said Mike Kuehn, President of Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (CSC). “Envoy Aerospace brings to Astronics not only deep technical knowledge and an excellent track record in FAA certification processes, but also a long-standing culture of trust, precision, and customer-centric service. These attributes align seamlessly with our own values and priorities.”
Addressing a Growing Market Need
The global aviation industry is experiencing a significant rebound post-pandemic, with airlines renewing their fleets, upgrading cabins, enhancing onboard connectivity, and preparing aircraft for lease returns. These activities often require STCs and PMAs, which in turn depend on the availability of qualified ODA services. Unfortunately, many OEMs and suppliers have faced delays due to limited access to ODA resources.
With the integration of Envoy’s capabilities, Astronics is now uniquely positioned to respond quickly and efficiently to these industry needs. The move allows the company to streamline the certification process for its customers, eliminate potential bottlenecks, and ensure faster time-to-market for new products and aircraft modification programs.
“This capability is especially valuable for our airline and MRO customers who are looking to implement complex modifications under aggressive timelines,” added Kuehn. “We’re now able to offer a vertically integrated solution that not only includes the technology and systems but also the full path to certification and compliance.”
A Trusted Name in FAA Certification
Envoy Aerospace has established itself over the years as a trusted name in aircraft and rotorcraft certification. The company provides a comprehensive suite of services that help manufacturers, integrators, and operators navigate the complex FAA regulatory environment. Their core competencies include obtaining U.S. STCs for major design changes, securing PMAs for new products, and facilitating foreign approvals for international deployment.
With over two decades of industry experience and a track record of successful certification projects, Envoy’s team brings unique expertise and credibility to Astronics. The acquisition not only builds on an existing relationship—Envoy has partnered with Astronics for more than 20 years—but also sets the stage for deeper integration of engineering, design, and certification processes under one roof.
Adrian Honer, Partner at Envoy Aerospace, emphasized the synergy between the two organizations: “We’ve always respected Astronics as an innovator and long-time partner. Formalizing this relationship was a natural progression. Our teams have worked side by side for years, and we’ve developed a mutual understanding of how to approach the most complex certification challenges. Now, as part of Astronics, we can scale our operations, broaden our impact, and continue to support the industry’s evolving needs more effectively.”
Honer added that the integration into Astronics does not mean a departure from their core mission: “Our commitment to quality, safety, and regulatory excellence remains unchanged. In fact, being part of a larger organization will allow us to leverage additional resources and offer even better service to our clients in both commercial and defense sectors.”
Ongoing Programs and Customer Assurance
Astronics has confirmed that all current and ongoing programs initiated under Envoy Aerospace will remain a priority and continue uninterrupted. Customers can expect the same high levels of service, technical accuracy, and responsiveness that they have come to associate with Envoy, now further supported by the extensive engineering, testing, and production infrastructure of Astronics Corporation.
The merger is expected to be seamless, with both companies expressing a shared commitment to customer success, program integrity, and transparent communication during the transition process.
In addition to bolstering Astronics’ technical offerings, the move also supports the company’s broader business strategy to expand its share in the global aircraft modernization and MRO market, which is expected to grow substantially over the next decade.
Strategic Alignment with Inflight Connectivity Vision
The acquisition aligns closely with Astronics’ vision for the future of inflight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC). As demand increases for always-on, high-speed connectivity onboard aircraft—from both passengers and flight crews—airlines and OEMs require faster, more reliable ways to certify and implement these systems across diverse fleets.
Astronics’ IFEC solutions are already deployed on thousands of aircraft worldwide. With the addition of in-house ODA services, the company can now provide end-to-end solutions that encompass hardware design, systems integration, testing, certification, and post-delivery support.
“The integration of Envoy Aerospace enhances every aspect of our IFEC business—from reducing development cycles to improving customer responsiveness and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations,” said Kuehn. “It’s a comprehensive solution for a complex market.”
The acquisition of Envoy Aerospace marks a significant milestone for Astronics Corporation as it strengthens its leadership position in the aviation technology ecosystem. By expanding its FAA certification capabilities, the company is now better equipped to deliver next-generation technologies that are compliant, reliable, and ready for global deployment.
Astronics continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation, customer service, and operational excellence—qualities that have made it a trusted partner in aerospace and defense for decades.
