An Arduino-Based Avionics System for Remote-Controlled Aircraft

This study aims to design, develop, and evaluate an Arduino-based avionics System for Remote-Controlled Aircraft, providing an affordable and accessible platform for educational and practical aerospace applications. As global aviation continues to evolve, integrating modern avionics into academic environments has become essential for training future professionals. Traditional avionics systems, while effective, are often expensive and complex, limiting their accessibility to students and hobbyists. This research offers a cost-effective alternative by utilizing Arduino Nano as the core processor, combined with essential components such as the MS5611 barometric pressure sensor, MPU6050 gyroscope/accelerometer, Neo-6M GPS module, and APC220 wireless communication module. The study adopts a descriptive quantitative design and was conducted at Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) with 20 participants, including instructors and students experienced in avionics systems. The performance of the Arduino-based system was evaluated in terms of three key metrics: stability, accuracy, and response time. Sensor data and user feedback were gathered through controlled flight tests and face-to-face survey questionnaires using a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical analysis showed that the system performed effectively, achieving high scores across all metrics. The system maintained stable flight under various conditions, produced accurate sensor readings for real-time monitoring, and demonstrated fast response times to control inputs. The results indicate that the Arduino-based avionics system holds substantial potential as a low-cost, customizable alternative for educational and hobbyist use. However, the study also identified areas for refinement, such as enhancing command processing speed and improving stability through advanced flight control algorithms. Overall, this project contributes to developing practical, hands-on learning tools in aviation education, enabling greater access to avionics training and encouraging innovation in aerospace engineering.