As an aerospace manufacturer, you would like to carry out analyses in accordance with the RTCA DO-160 testing procedure
What is the RTCA DO-160 test procedure?
The RTCA DO-160 testing procedure is an international aerospace industry standard that defines the environmental requirements and test methods for electronic and electrical equipment used in aircraft. Published by the RTCA (Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics), it serves as a reference to ensure that such equipment operates reliably in the harsh environments of aviation.
The objectives of the DO-160 standard
Why comply with the RTCA DO-160 standard?
The DO-160 standard is of significant use to the aerospace industry. Manufacturers of aeronautical equipment must demonstrate that their products comply with the requirements of this standard in order to obtain certification and allow them to be integrated into aircraft. Airlines, for their part, ensure that the equipment installed on their aircraft guarantees both safety and reliability. Finally, the regulatory authorities use this standard as a reference to validate equipment certification.
The advantages of the DO-160 standard are numerous. It reduces risk by identifying and correcting potential weaknesses in equipment. Thanks to its standardisation, it provides manufacturers with a common framework that facilitates the certification process. Finally, it guarantees greater reliability, making equipment better suited to the extreme conditions encountered during flights.
How is the DO160 standard implemented?
DO-160 tests are carried out during the equipment development process. These tests are carried out in specialised laboratories by qualified engineers and technicians with the necessary expertise and tools. They enable electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests to be carried out, as well as tests in climatic, mechanical and other specific environments.
FILAB laboratory carries out RTCA DO-160 testing
FILAB: SAFRAN-approved laboratory
For several years, FILAB has held the Laboratory Qualification issued by the SAFRAN Group under procedures GRP-0087 and GRM-0123. The accreditation covers chemical analysis of metal alloys and mineral products: elemental analysers (C/S, N/O and H), Spark Optical Emission Spectrometry (SEO) and Plasma Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES).
This accreditation has been renewed several times, following regular audits carried out by SAFRAN on our premises. It shows recognition of the organisation, work and knowledge of our teams and their ability to meet the requirements of the aerospace sector.
For more information, please consult our Attestation de Qualification des Procédés Spéciaux (AQPS n° 7).
The tests required by the DO-160 standard carried out at the FILAB laboratory
At the Filab laboratory, several tests related to the DO-160 standard can be carried out to meet the requirements of manufacturers and players in the aerospace industry. These tests focus on chemical, physical and materials analyses to ensure equipment compliance and reliability. Here are the main tests carried out:
Identification and control of the composition of metal alloys
Search for contaminants: residues, metallic particles
Studies of delamination or adhesion of coatings subjected to mechanical or chemical stresses
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our technical resources for RTCA DO-160 testing
Notre FAQ
The RTCA DO-160 standard is an international reference used in the aerospace industry to define environmental testing requirements for airborne equipment. It ensures that electronic and electrical systems can operate reliably under extreme flight conditions such as temperature variations, vibrations, humidity, and electromagnetic disturbances.
DO-160 includes a wide range of environmental tests designed to simulate real operating conditions encountered in aircraft. These tests cover aspects such as temperature and altitude resistance, vibration and mechanical stress, humidity, electromagnetic compatibility, and corrosion caused by saline environments.
DO-160 tests are generally carried out during the development and qualification phases of a product. Performing these tests early helps identify potential weaknesses, optimize design, and avoid delays during the certification process.
The DO-160 standard focuses specifically on environmental testing conditions, while other standards address different aspects of the aerospace industry. For example, EN 9100 relates to quality management systems, whereas specific manufacturer procedures, such as SAFRAN standards, define additional industrial requirements.
DO-160 applies to all electronic and electrical equipment intended for use on board aircraft. This includes avionics systems, sensors, communication devices, and embedded electronic components that are exposed to environmental constraints during flight.
FILAB supports aerospace manufacturers by carrying out a range of analyses aligned with DO-160 requirements. The laboratory performs material characterization, alloy composition analysis, corrosion testing, surface analysis, mechanical testing, and contamination research to ensure equipment reliability.
FILAB is a SAFRAN-approved laboratory, qualified under procedures GRP-0087 and GRM-0123. This recognition reflects the laboratory’s ability to meet stringent aerospace requirements and is regularly confirmed through audits conducted by SAFRAN.
Outsourcing testing to a specialized laboratory allows manufacturers to rely on advanced equipment and expert teams. It also ensures reliable results, saves time during development, and facilitates the overall certification process.
Turnaround times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times tailored to your industrial constraints and urgent needs.
To obtain a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply tell us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, applicable standards, urgency, quantity of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.
