Astronics Unveils FaultFinder ETS, Aiming to Cut Aircraft Downtime with Automated Diagnostics
In a move set to streamline maintenance operations for airlines and defense contractors, Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO) has launched its latest diagnostic tool, the FaultFinder Electronic Troubleshooting System (ETS). The compact, automated system, unveiled on January 21, 2026, promises to significantly reduce the time and labor required to identify faults in complex aircraft circuit boards.
Part of Astronics' established PinPoint product family, the FaultFinder ETS employs advanced algorithms to pinpoint system failures with high accuracy. A key feature is its reverse-engineering capability, which can generate schematics for undocumented or legacy circuit boards—a common challenge in maintaining aging fleets. The system integrates directly with the company's APMARS automated probe system, creating a seamless workflow intended to enhance efficiency in mission-critical aviation and defense operations.
The launch comes amid a favorable outlook for the aerospace sector. Earlier this month, Truist Securities raised its price target on Astronics from $58 to $75, maintaining a 'Buy' rating. Analysts cited sustained production rates in commercial aerospace, robust aftermarket demand, and ongoing defense modernization programs as tailwinds. However, the note also struck a cautious tone, suggesting valuations across the defense technology sector are elevated and advising investors to be selective.
Astronics, a key supplier of power, avionics, lighting, and test systems for both commercial and military aircraft, appears positioned to benefit from these long-term industry trends. The FaultFinder ETS directly addresses the pressing need to minimize aircraft downtime, a major cost driver for operators.
Industry Voices
Michael Rourke, Lead Avionics Engineer at a major cargo airline: "This is the logical next step in predictive maintenance. If it delivers on its promise to cut diagnostic time in half for certain avionics issues, the ROI for high-utilization fleets could be substantial. We're eager to evaluate it."
David Chen, Portfolio Manager at Horizon Capital: "Astronics is executing well by deepening its product ecosystem. The FaultFinder launch reinforces their niche in essential, high-margin support equipment. Truist's revised target seems justified given the aftermarket's resilience."
Sarah Fitzpatrick, former FAA inspector and industry blogger: "Another 'magic box' promising to fix everything. Let's see the real-world data outside a controlled lab. The aviation maintenance chain is drowning in proprietary, closed systems that lock operators into single vendors. Is this solving a problem or just creating another dependency?"
James Holt, MRO Director at a regional carrier: "The schematic generation for old boards is a game-changer for us. Keeping older regional jets flying is an economic necessity, and tools like this could be a lifeline, provided the cost of entry isn't prohibitive."