Installation Approval Considerations For Pressurized Aircraft - Garmin GTX 330 Installation Manual

If the antenna is being installed on a composite aircraft, ground planes must sometimes be
added. Conductive wire mesh, radials, or thin aluminum sheets embedded in the composite
material provide the proper ground plane allowing the antenna pattern (gain) to be maximized
for optimum transponder performance.
2.3.2 Antenna Installation
Install the antenna according to the antenna manufacturer's instructions and FAA AC 43.13-2A.

2.3.3 Installation Approval Considerations for Pressurized Aircraft

Antenna and cable installations on pressurized cabin aircraft require FAA approved installation design and
engineering substantiation data whenever such installations incorporate alteration (penetration) of the cabin pressure
vessel by connector holes and/or mounting arrangements.
For needed engineering support pertaining to the design and approval of such pressurized aircraft antenna
installations, it is recommended that the installer proceed according to any of the following listed alternatives:
1. Obtain approved antenna installation design data from the aircraft manufacturer.
2. Obtain an FAA approved Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) pertaining to and valid for the subject
antenna installation.
3. Contact the FAA Aircraft Certification Office in the appropriate Region and request identification of FAA
Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs) who are authorized to prepare and approve the required
antenna installation engineering data.
4. Obtain FAA Advisory Circular AC-183C and select (and contact) a DER from the roster of individuals
identified thereunder.
5. Contact an aviation industry organization such as the Aircraft Electronics Association and request their
assistance.
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GTX 330 Installation Manual
190-00207-02