AOPA, AEA join forces to help aircraft owners upgrade their panels

AOPA and AOPA Certified financing partner MBNA America Bank are teaming up with the Aircraft Electronics Association to make it easier for aircraft owners to upgrade their avionics.

AOPA President Phil Boyer and AEA President Paula Derks made the announcement at AEA's annual convention in Palm Springs, California. "At this convention, I always feel like a kid in a candy store," said Boyer. "Unfortunately, when you start adding up the pennies in your pocket, like we used to do at the candy store, there are never enough to afford what you want. Therefore, we are establishing this win-win partnership with AEA and MBNA." The program makes MBNA's Aircraft Improvement Loans available directly through participating avionics shops.

Following Boyer's announcement, several avionics manufacturers said the partnership is just what their dealers need to help owners and pilots upgrade by providing alternatives to loading up credit cards or shelling out cash.

The Aircraft Improvement Loan is a long-term, simple interest loan available through MBNA to AOPA members and is one of numerous AOPA Certified Products intended to make flying less expensive and easier for AOPA members.

The loan program may also be used for upgrading the paint or interior of an aircraft or for an engine overhaul.

For more information on this unique program, call 800/672-5057.

The Aircraft Electronics Association was formed in 1957 and represents over 1,000 avionics sales and installation shops worldwide.

For more news from the AEA convention, visit AOPA Online's members-only section.

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