AvionTEq’s 2025 Guide to Choosing the Best Air Data Test Sets
What is an Aircraft Pitot-Static System?
An aircraft’s pitot-static system is a vital network of pressure-sensitive components that measure critical flight parameters, including airspeed, altitude, vertical speed, and Mach number. The system consists of a pitot tube, which captures dynamic (ram) air pressure, and static ports that measure ambient atmospheric pressure. These readings are then delivered to flight instruments or processed by an air data computer in modern aircraft.
Because accurate data is essential for safe flight operations, any errors in the pitot-static system can result in misinterpretation of speed or altitude, potentially leading to hazardous situations.
Why Must an Aircraft Pitot-Static System Be Tested?
Routine testing of a pitot-static system ensures the reliability and accuracy of flight instruments such as:
- Airspeed indicator
- Altimeter
- Vertical speed indicator
- Manifold pressure gauge
- Engine pressure ratio (EPR) indicator
Even small inaccuracies in these readings can pose significant safety risks. To confirm system integrity, maintenance crews rely on pitot-static testers (air data test sets, or ADTS), which simulate pressure and vacuum conditions to calibrate instruments and detect leaks.
Testing intervals are generally every one to two years, though requirements vary depending on the aircraft type, manufacturer recommendations, and aviation regulations. Staying compliant with testing schedules not only enhances safety but also ensures regulatory compliance.
Key Factors when Selecting an Air Data Test Set
When choosing an Air Data Test Set (ADTS), it’s important to match the tester to your aircraft type and operational requirements. Here are the key considerations:
1. What Is the Size of the Aircraft?
- Light aircraft & helicopters → Portable, easy-to-use testers such as the Barfield 1811NG (digital, lightweight) or the Laversab 6200 (for non-RVSM applications).
- Commercial or regional aircraft → More advanced testers like the Barfield DPS 1000, designed for high accuracy with built-in protections.
- Military or large commercial aircraft → Rugged, high-performance systems such as the Laversab 6300 Series or Laversab 6600 Series.
2. Is the Aircraft RVSM-Compliant?
Aircraft flying between 29,000 and 41,000 feet must meet Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) standards.
3. Is the Aircraft Equipped with SmartProbes™?
SmartProbes™ combine multiple sensors for advanced air data measurement. Testing these systems requires specialized testers:
- The Laversab 6600-NG provides three independent pressure channels to accurately support SmartProbe calibration.
4. How Many Pressure Channels Does the Aircraft Require?
- Two-channel systems → Suitable for standard pitot and static testing (e.g., Barfield 1811NG, Barfield DPS 1000, or Laversab 6300-W/M3).
- Three-channel systems → Required for advanced aircraft needing angle of attack (AOA) or angle of sideslip (AOS) testing. The Laversab 6600-NG is specifically engineered for this role.
5. Do You Need Portability or Fixed Installation?
- Portable field use → Compact testers like the Barfield 1811NG or Laversab 6200, perfect for technicians performing checks outside of the hangar.
- Hangar or fixed facility use → Higher-capacity, rugged systems like the Barfield DPS 1000 or Laversab 6300/6600 Series, built for extended testing in MRO shops and military bases.
Best Air Data Test Sets in 2025: Barfield 1811NG, DPS 1000, Laversab 6300-W & 6600-NG
Barfield 1811NG Digital Pitot-Static Test Set
The Barfield 1811NG Digital Pitot-Static Test Set is a compact and lightweight unit designed for general aviation, helicopters, and business aircraft. Known for its durability and precision, the 1811NG is widely used in both hangar and field environments to ensure the accuracy of pitot-static instruments.
Key Features of the Barfield 1811NG:
- Compact & Portable – Rugged, lightweight design makes it ideal for on-site or field use.
- Digital Accuracy – Provides precise pitot-static measurements for airspeed, altimeters, and vertical speed indicators.
- Easy Operation – User-friendly interface simplifies testing procedures for technicians.
- Versatile Applications – Suitable for testing a wide range of general aviation and rotary aircraft systems.
- Reliable Performance – Built to withstand demanding conditions while delivering consistent results.
Why Choose the Barfield 1811NG?
With its digital accuracy, portability, and proven reliability, the 1811NG is trusted by maintenance facilities, repair stations, and aircraft operators worldwide. It provides a cost-effective and dependable solution for ensuring compliance with aviation safety standards.
Barfield DPS1000 Digital Pitot-Static Test Set
The Barfield DPS1000 is a state-of-the-art digital pitot-static test set designed for precision and reliability in both general and commercial aviation. It provides highly accurate testing of pitot-static systems, ensuring compliance with the latest aviation safety standards.
Key Features of the Barfield DPS 1000:
- High Accuracy – Delivers precise measurements for altimeters, vertical speed indicators, and airspeed systems.
- Digital Control – Modern digital interface with intuitive controls for efficient testing.
- Lightweight & Portable – Easy to transport for field or hangar use.
- Built-In Safety Protections – Includes overpressure and vacuum safeguards for reliable testing.
- Wide Aircraft Compatibility – Suitable for general aviation, business jets, and regional aircraft.
Why Choose the Barfield DPS 1000?
The DPS 1000 combines advanced digital technology with rugged portability, making it the go-to solution for operators and MROs needing precise pitot-static system checks. Its accuracy and reliability help reduce downtime while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Laversab 6300-W Automated Pitot-Static Tester
The Laversab 6300-W RVSM Automated Pitot-Static Tester is designed for commercial, business, and military aviation, offering seamless integration with an aircraft’s pitot and static systems. Built for accuracy, efficiency, and ease of use, this air data test set (ADTS) ensures precise testing of critical flight instruments while reducing maintenance time and costs.
Key Features of the Laversab 6300-W:
- Direct Aircraft Integration – Connects directly to pitot and static systems for accurate, reliable testing.
- Remote Cockpit Operation – Equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and a lightweight control interface for convenient cockpit-based operation.
- Comprehensive System Testing – Supports altimeters, vertical speed indicators, airspeed and Mach indicators, air data computers, and autopilot systems.
- Built-In Pumps & Safety Features – Includes integrated pressure and vacuum pumps, plus emergency manual bleed-down valves for safe operation.
- RVSM Accuracy – Meets Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) requirements, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Portable & Efficient – Compact design with advanced functionality, making it ideal for both field and hangar environments.
Why Choose the Laversab 6300-W?
The Laversab 6300-W is trusted by airlines, repair stations, and aircraft operators worldwide for its combination of portability, precision, and advanced features. With Wi-Fi-enabled cockpit control and RVSM-compliant accuracy, it simplifies pitot-static testing while ensuring flight safety and regulatory compliance.
Laversab 6600-NG Automated Pitot-Static Tester (SmartProbe™- Compatible)
The Laversab 6600-NG Automated Pitot-Static Tester is a state-of-the-art three-channel ADTS designed specifically for aircraft equipped with SmartProbes™. Built for precision, efficiency, and compliance, this advanced system provides accurate pitot-static testing with outputs for static (Ps1), pitot (Pt), and a third channel (Ps2) that can simulate either angle of attack (AOA) or angle of sideslip (AOS).
Key Features of the Laversab 6600-NG:
- SmartProbe-Compatible Design – Purpose-built for aircraft using SmartProbes™, ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
- Three-Channel System – Provides Ps1, Pt, and Ps2 outputs, with the third channel capable of simulating AOA or AOS.
- Cockpit Operation – Lightweight remote unit allows full system control and testing directly from the cockpit.
- Comprehensive Testing – Supports altimeters, climb indicators, airspeed/Mach indicators, air data computers, and autopilot systems.
- RVSM Accuracy & Reliability – Meets Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) compliance standards for precise testing.
- Built-In Safety & Efficiency – Includes integrated vacuum and pressure pumps, plus emergency manual bleed-down valves.
- Optional Enhancements – Features available with removable 8-hour battery and extended temperature range for field versatility.
- Profiles Mode – Automates test sequences with a single button for faster, more consistent testing.
- Wi-Fi Enabled – Supports wireless control via tablets for added convenience.
Aircraft Approvals
The Laversab 6600-NG is approved for use on a wide range of aircraft, including:
- Embraer E-Jets
- Bombardier C-Series
- Gulfstream
- HondaJet
Why Choose the Laversab 6600-NG?
With its SmartProbe compatibility, RVSM compliance, and advanced three-channel testing capabilities, the Laversab 6600-NG is the ideal choice for airlines, MROs, and operators of modern aircraft. Its combination of accuracy, automation, and flexibility ensures reliable performance in both hangar and field environments.
Get Expert Help from AvionTEq
We specialize in helping aviation professionals select the right pitot-static tester or air data test set (Barfield or Laversab) for specific aircraft. Whether you need to purchase, lease, or rent, AvionTEq offers flexible solutions tailored to your operational needs.
Contact AvionTEq today to discuss your requirements and get expert guidance on the best ADTS for your fleet.