Maintain an Aviation Headset

Aviation Headsets are used by pilots for ATC communication and for hearing protection. An aviation headsets is a complex,delicate,and costly piece of avionics equipment.For an aviation headset to continue to work effectively it must be routinely cleaned and inspected.

Steps

  1. Clean your headset.
    1. Remove the ear seals and wipe them down with alcohol
    2. Dry the ear seals and move them aside.
    3. Inside the "ear cups" take a can of compressed air and spray down all internal components. Dust tends to accumulate on these components often.
    4. Wipe the outside of the cups with a mix of soap and water, then dry.
    5. Wipe down the headband with soap and water, adjust if necessary and dry.
  2. Make sure the plug wires are wired correctly, give theme a light tug.
  3. Check the plugs, make sure they are corrosion free. If corrosion exist wipe them down with plain steel wool until shinny.
  4. Reassemble headset
  5. Store headset in a padded headset bag or flight bag for protection.

Tips

  • Cleaning an inspecting your headset after every flight will ensure a long life, and reduce the risk of a malfunction.
  • Be sure to NEVER GET ANY LIQUID INSIDE THE HEADSET CUPS.

Warnings

  • Always read the manufacturer's instructions prior to cleaning.
  • ANR headsets require extremely delicate interior ear cup cleaning.
  • Some airlines that issue headsets require you to keep them in good condition. If a problem is discovered you must take your headset to an FAA approved FAR part 145 repairer.

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