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In the Spring of 2022, Duncan Aviation expanded and reorganized its parts manufacturing and fabrication capabilities to better support customers with complex, custom fabrication needs. This resulted in a new division, DMS (Duncan Manufacturing Solutions). With more than 40 years of experience and FAA PMA authorization, DMS supports airframe, avionics, and engine OEMs with job-shop manufacturing for complex components—from structural supports to interior aesthetic parts. By managing projects from prototype through finished assembly, complete with customer data, DMS gives customers tailored parts solutions for both aging aircraft and new programs without relying on traditional high-volume manufacturing. Learn more about Duncan Manufacturing Solutions.
In the early 1980s, a simple conversation sparked an idea that would reshape how Duncan Aviation served its customers. While accompanying his wife Karen on a shoe-shopping trip, Robert Duncan struck up a conversation with a shoe salesman who explained that his department operated independently within the store. By focusing on the right products, fair pricing, and skilled people—without the burden of owning the building—the business could serve customers more efficiently.
That insight stayed with Robert. He began asking a new question: how could this model improve support for business aviation customers? The answer was to bring Duncan Aviation’s avionics expertise directly to where aircraft already operated—by placing avionics shops inside successful FBOs.
To turn the idea into reality, Robert asked Don Fielder—an avionics technician hired in 1966 and Duncan Aviation team member #17—to lead the effort. The result was faster, more convenient access to trusted avionics service, without customers needing to reposition their aircraft.
In April 1985, Duncan Aviation opened its first Satellite location at Houston’s Hobby Field. Over the next 18 months, three additional Satellites followed, expanding customer access to dependable, on-site support.
Today, 28 Duncan Aviation Satellites staffed by 178 team members deliver localized service across the country. Each location is tailored to regional customer needs, with capabilities that now extend well beyond avionics—providing operators with the right expertise, in the right place, exactly when they need it. Find a satellite location near you.
For customers, consistent service is built on long-term relationships and deep institutional knowledge. In the 1980s, Robert and Karen Duncan recognized that many team members were building decades-long careers at Duncan Aviation. They chose to formally honor that commitment by creating the Silver Wings Club for team members who work for the company for 25 or more years. The program was designed to recognize long-term service and loyalty, welcoming members with meaningful acknowledgments and regular celebrations.
There are now 715 lifetime members in Silver Wings, including retirees and those who are no longer with us.
And the tradition continues to evolve. At the most recent Silver Wings inductee celebration in December 2025, Todd and Connie Duncan announced the creation of a Gold Wings Club to honor team members who reach the remarkable milestone of 50 years with Duncan Aviation.
