What Aerocon Engineering does

Aerocon Engineering, founded in 1982 and headquartered at 7716 Kester Ave., Van Nuys, California, is a privately held aerospace engineering firm that designs, certifies, and manufactures specialized aircraft products and systems. The company operates with 11–50 employees under AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 quality registrations and holds FAA Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) under Title 14 CFR Part 21.307 across all parts for which it has Supplemental Type Certification (STC). Its product portfolio spans cabin interior systems (window shades, crew rest compartments, three-phase integrated noise reduction, insulation kits), aircraft access systems (air stairs, VIP lifts up to 500 lbs, crew ladders, entrance awnings), aircraft utility systems (APUs, auxiliary fuel tanks, vapor cycle air conditioning, air-flow control valves), and cargo safety equipment (fire protection systems using Kidde Aerospace & Defense components, cargo hoist systems). Aerocon employs FAA Designated Engineering Representatives (DER) and Designated Airworthiness Representatives (DAR), enabling in-house approval of engineering drawings, structural analysis, and certification data.

The firm maintains in-house flight testing capability using a combi-configured large transport aircraft and twin-engine platforms, and supports the full engineering lifecycle — airframe, structural testing, propulsion, avionics/electronics, interiors, acoustics, special programs, and flight testing. Aerocon serves four primary segments: VIP and executive aircraft operators; aircraft completion centers and MROs; U.S. and allied government/military agencies (notably the JSF Cooperative Electronics Test Bed, the C-130 AMP, and the E-8C JSTARS); and commercial airlines and fleet operators reached through an internal same-day parts distribution arm covering DC-10, Boeing 700 Series, and Airbus A Series aircraft.

Aerocon generates revenue through four streams: turn-key custom STC/PMA product packages sold as one-time kits with installation, maintenance, and certification documentation; engineering services billed on project bases; aircraft parts distribution on a sale-or-exchange basis; and flight test services. Go-to-market is enterprise field sales with strong reliance on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat customers developed over 30+ years, supplemented by NBAA and ASA membership presence and a basic product website. Geographic reach spans the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, and additional global VIP modification and parts customers, all delivered from the single Van Nuys facility.

Name

Aerocon Engineering

Legal name

Aerocon Engineering

Website

https://aeroconengineering.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1982

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Aerocon Engineering is a Van Nuys-based aerospace engineering firm that designs, certifies, and manufactures FAA STC/PMA-approved aircraft products — including airstairs, VIP lifts, crew rests, noise reduction systems, APUs, and fire protection — for VIP operators, completion centers, military programs, and commercial airlines worldwide.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Aerospace Engineering and STC-Certified Aircraft Systems Manufacturing

NAICS

Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing (33641), Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413)

SIC

Aircraft & Parts (3720), Aircraft Parts & Auxiliary Equipment, Nec (3728)

akta.pro primary industry

Aerospace Interior Materials & Components (Cabin) (IMABANAI)

akta.pro secondary industries

Aerospace Fuel System Components (Tanks, Lines, Valves) (IMABANAJ), Doors, Hatches, Canopies & Access Panels (IMABAEAF)

Keywords

• Aerospace engineering services
• FAA STC certification
• VIP aircraft modifications
• Custom aerospace manufacturing
• Military aircraft upgrades

Headquarters

HQ city

Van Nuys

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Custom-Designed Aerospace Products (STC/PMA): Aerocon designs, manufactures, and certifies aircraft products under FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) and Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA). Products include airstairs, VIP lifts, crew rest compartments, noise reduction systems, auxiliary fuel tanks, cargo fire protection systems, air conditioning systems, APUs, window shade systems, entrance awnings, insulation kits, and cargo hoist systems. Revenue is generated through the sale of turn-key installation kits including all parts, hardware, and documentation.
2. Engineering Services: Full range of engineering services including airframe, structural testing, propulsion, avionics/electronics, interiors, acoustics, special programs, and flight testing. Services are provided to completion centers, airlines, operators, and aircraft manufacturers. Revenue is earned through project-based consulting and engineering support contracts.
3. Aircraft Parts Distribution: Same-day dispatch of expendable and rotable aircraft parts including extrusions, grommets, thrust reversers, propellers, diodes, bolts, screws, wheels, brakes, and more. Parts are available for DC-10, Boeing 700 Series, and Airbus A Series. Revenue generated through sale or exchange of parts to airlines, operators, maintenance entities, and manufacturers worldwide.
4. Flight Testing Services: In-house flight testing using a combi-configured large transport aircraft and twin-engine aircraft for smaller-scale programs. Provides platforms for flight test and observation with quick installation/removal of test equipment. Revenue earned through flight test project contracts.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels2 records

Marketing channels3 records

Core offering

Aerocon Engineering designs, manufactures, and FAA-certifies bespoke aerospace products (airstairs, VIP lifts, crew rest compartments, auxiliary fuel systems, cargo fire protection systems, APUs, vapor cycle air conditioning, window shades, insulation kits, cargo hoists, entrance awnings) under Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) and Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA). It also provides project-based aerospace engineering services (airframe, structural, propulsion, avionics, interiors, acoustics, flight testing) and operates an aircraft parts distribution business with same-day dispatch.

Product overview

Aerocon Engineering is an aerospace engineering company specializing in the design, manufacture, and FAA certification of specialized aircraft products and systems. Their portfolio includes cabin interior products (Window Shade System, Crew Rest Compartment, Cabin Interior Noise Reduction), aircraft access systems (Air Stairs/VIP Lift/Crew Ladders, Entrance Awnings), cargo handling (Cargo Hoist System), safety systems (Cargo Compartment Fire Protection), and aircraft utility systems (Auxiliary Fuel System, Auxiliary Power Units, Vapor Cycle Air Conditioning, Insulation Systems). They also provide aircraft parts distribution services. All products are supplied as turn-key packages with FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) and Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA), including prefabricated installation kits with complete documentation. The company serves commercial, VIP, and military aircraft operators worldwide.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Window Shade System Electrical and mechanical aircraft window shade system available in single and dual shade configurations with FAA STC/PMA certification. Components meet RTCA DO-160 environmental requirements, and options meet or exceed OSU 65/65 heat release standards. Targeted at VIP and commercial aircraft operators seeking certified cabin window shading.
• Air Stairs / VIP Lift / Crew Ladders Self-contained automated boarding systems for VIP aircraft, including VIP Lift (up to 500 lbs), STC'd airstairs for Boeing/Airbus/Lockheed/Douglas models, the AAHPP hydraulic power pack, and hydraulic or telescoping crew ladders for Boeing 757/767/777 and Airbus 310/330/340. Designed for VIP operators, completion centers, and commercial airlines that want a VIP-class boarding experience without ground support equipment.
• Crew Rest Compartment Forward lower lobe modular sleeping accommodations for up to 10 crew members in 1-3 quick-change modules, with up to two lavatories, Class B stowage (250 cubic feet, 500 lbs), VIP-quality mattresses, privacy curtains, dual-level LED lighting, and integral smoke/fire detection and suppression. STC certified with FAA involvement. The only STC'd forward lower lobe crew rest of its kind worldwide, targeting VIP operators and completion centers.
• Cargo Hoist System Ceiling track-mounted cargo loading system for loading bulk and containerized cargo up to 1,000 lbs without ground service equipment. Includes safety interlocks and trolley system. Aimed at VIP, commercial, and special-mission operators needing autonomous cargo handling.
• Cabin Interior Noise Reduction System Integrated three-phase noise reduction solution combining interior modifications, environmental control system treatment, and thermal/acoustic insulation systems with fire protection for VIP aircraft. Achieves FAR 25.853 flammability compliance and FAR 25.856 burn-through protection, with at least 4 minutes (typically 15+ minutes) of flame incursion resistance and heat flux limited to 2 BTU/ft²-sec. Targets VIP operators and completion centers.
• Cargo Compartment Fire Protection System Complete STC'd fire detection and suppression systems using Kidde Aerospace & Defense components, including single/dual-loop smoke detection (TSO C1c), control panels, electronics units, and Halon 1301 extinguishers sized for cargo compartments. Available in standard 60-minute or ETOPS up to 120-minute configurations. Aimed at commercial airlines, MROs, and completion centers needing Class D cargo compartment fire protection retrofits.
• Auxiliary Fuel System Modular auxiliary fuel tank systems with welded dual-wall cylindrical construction delivering 0.99 lbs/gal installed weight. Uses cabin differential pressure for pressurization and incorporates an automated cabin pressure isolation valve that integrates with existing FQMS displays. SFAR-88 compliant. Targeted at VIP operators and special mission/military operators needing extended range.
• Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) Systems Custom Auxiliary Power Unit design, manufacturing, certification, and installation services for C-130, military, commercial, and corporate aircraft. Example deliverable is the C-130 AMP APU upgrade offering simplified design, higher MTBF, and parts commonality with the C-130H model APU engine and generator. Serves military and government operators as well as completion centers.
• Vapor Cycle Air Conditioning (VCAC) System Custom vapor cycling air conditioning systems for cockpit, executive quarters, EW suites, avionics bays, and medevac/hospital aircraft. Operates from APU, GPU, or main engine, delivering 24,000 BTUH cooling at 5 KVA power, with 30°F temperature drop between inlet and distribution duct outlet. Flight-rated to 40,000 feet. Includes an electronically controlled air-flow shut-off valve (3" or larger diameter) for supplemental avionics cooling, with fails-closed safety design. Aimed at VIP, military, and medevac operators.
• Entrance Awnings Aircraft door frame awnings providing weather protection for boarding areas. Available in custom colors with optional company logo personalization and require no structural modifications. Targeted at VIP and corporate operators.
• Insulation Systems / Kits Thermal/acoustic insulation kits delivering acoustic noise reduction, cabin thermal stability across -80 to +140°F, and fire protection including FAR 25.853 and FAR 25.856 compliance. Sold as turn-key packages for VIP, commercial, and military aircraft cabin programs.
• Aircraft Parts Distribution Same-day dispatch service for expendable and rotable aircraft parts including extrusions, grommets, thrust reversers, propellers, diodes, bolts, screws, wheels, brakes, and electronic components. Inventory covers DC-10, Boeing 700 Series, and Airbus A Series aircraft. Available via sale or exchange programs to airlines, operators, MROs, and manufacturers worldwide.
• Aerospace Engineering Services Project-based aerospace engineering services covering airframe, structural testing, propulsion, avionics/electronics, interiors, acoustics, special programs, and flight testing. Includes FAA DER/DAR support and is delivered to completion centers, airlines, operators, and aircraft manufacturers on a contract basis.
• Flight Testing Services In-house flight testing using a combi-configured large transport aircraft and twin-engine aircraft for smaller-scale programs. Provides platforms for flight test and observation with quick installation/removal of test equipment. Sold as a project-based service to aerospace customers.

Quantifiable outcome

• Boeing 737 Airstairs Replacement delivers 50% reduction in weight and significant reduction in maintenance
• +6 more outcomes

Named customers6 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature9 records

Partnerships

Three partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Kidde Aerospace & DefensecoreTechnology or IntegrationAerocon uses Kidde Aerospace & Defense components in its certified STC'd cargo compartment fire protection systems, which include smoke detection, control panels, electronics units, and Halon 1301 extinguishers. Kidde supplies proven, field-tested aviation fire protection hardware that Aerocon integrates into complete certified systems for Class D retrofit programs and other cargo bay applications.
• Teaming Arrangement Manufacturers and External Providers (Van Nuys Locality)minorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerAerocon works with a network of manufacturers and external providers in the Van Nuys locality to produce machined parts — both small and large — necessary for flight testing and other engineering projects. This enables rapid fabrication without maintaining extensive in-house manufacturing capacity.
• FAA (Federal Aviation Administration)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerAerocon maintains Designated Engineering Representatives (DER) and Designated Airworthiness Representatives (DAR) authorized by the FAA to approve engineering drawings, structural analysis, and certification data. Aerocon also worked closely with the FAA to establish safety standards for the Lower Lobe Cargo Compartment crew rest system. The FAA is a critical regulatory partner enabling Aerocon's STC and PMA programs.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights4 records

Direct peers

• Field Aviation: Field Aviation performs aircraft modifications, STC programs, and engineering services for business and regional aircraft — closely overlapping Aerocon's combination of STC certification, engineering services, and completion center support. Both firms sell FAA-certified turn-key modification packages to operators and completion centers.
• Gore Design Completions: Gore Design Completions specializes in VIP aircraft interior completions including crew rest, galleys, and cabin systems. It directly competes with Aerocon in the VIP completion segment on Boeing and Airbus widebodies, with overlapping customer base among VIP operators and completion centers.
• Greenpoint Technologies: Greenpoint Technologies is a leading VIP aircraft completion center providing engineering, STC certification, and interior installation. It serves the same head-of-state and VIP operator customer base as Aerocon and often integrates third-party STC'd subsystems similar to those Aerocon produces.
• Avtron Aerospace: Avtron Aerospace (now part of Ontic) manufactured legacy aerospace components and held FAA STC/PMA approvals — a model nearly identical to Aerocon's parts distribution and certified component business. Both serve MRO organizations and operators needing traceable legacy parts.
• Fokker Services Group: Fokker Services Group provides aircraft modifications, STC programs, and engineering services across multiple airframes with global reach. It is comparable in scope to Aerocon's combination of engineering services, certified modifications, and parts support, with additional scale and European geographic exposure.
• Sabreliner Aviation: Sabreliner Aviation provides aircraft modifications, avionics upgrades, and engineering services for business and special-mission aircraft. Its mix of engineering services and STC'd modifications for niche platforms parallels Aerocon's custom-engineering business.

Broad incumbents

• Jet Aviation: Jet Aviation is a large global completion center and MRO provider serving VIP, business aviation, and government customers. It competes with Aerocon in the VIP completions market but as a much broader full-service integrator rather than a specialized subsystem supplier.
• Lufthansa Technik: Lufthansa Technik operates a major VIP completion division and broad aerospace MRO business. It is a much larger incumbent offering overlapping cabin interior, avionics, and component capabilities that compete with Aerocon at the prime contractor level.
• Honeywell Aerospace: Honeywell Aerospace manufactures APUs and a wide range of aircraft systems and is a potential competitor and supply chain partner to Aerocon's APU upgrade and cabin systems business. It represents the type of prime incumbent that could either partner with or out-scale Aerocon in subsystem markets.

Others

• Kidde Aerospace & Defense: Kidde Aerospace & Defense is Aerocon's named technology partner, supplying certified components for Aerocon's cargo fire protection STCs. While not a direct competitor, it is a strategically adjacent ecosystem participant whose relationship dynamics influence Aerocon's product roadmap and supplier leverage.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/aerocon-engineering-co-

Compliance8 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Aerocon Engineering