Heated Windshields: Replacement Costs, Risks, and What You Need to Know

Heated Windshields: Replacement Costs, Risks, and What You Need to Know

From The Malibu Guru by Casey Aviation

February 27, 2026 · 36 min · Episode 246

About this episode

This episode discusses the complexities and costs associated with replacing PA-46 windshields.

If you own, fly, buy, or sell a PA-46, you already know this is the topic that never goes away. In this episode, Joe sits down with Kenneth Hale, Director of Maintenance at Casey Aviation Services, and they break down why PA-46 windshields are such a big deal. Here’s what we talk about: Why windshield replacements can cost $50,000+ installed Why they’re often on long backorder The difference between older hot plate systems and newer heated glass What Piper’s Service Letter 1604 means for your airplane Amp draw vs. ohm testing (and why it matters) What makes a windshield “airworthy” How a bad logbook entry can affect a sale Why replacing a PA-46 windshield is such a big maintenance job If you’re going through a pre-buy, annual, or thinking about selling your airplane, this episode will help you understand what you’re really dealing with. Listen in so you’re not surprised the next time this “elephant in the room” comes up. M-Class Spring 2026 is approaching, and spots are filling up quickly. Reserve your seat now! https://flycasey.com/m-class/ Joe just released his very first book! You can grab your copy of Long Story Short: Stories From a Lifetime in the Cockpit on Amazon…

People in this episode

Host: Joe

Guest: Kenneth Hale

Topics covered

  • PA-46 windshields
  • maintenance costs
  • aviation safety
  • aircraft sales
  • pre-buy inspections

Keywords

  • windshield replacement
  • PA-46
  • aviation maintenance
  • airworthy standards
  • logbook entries

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Casey Aviation Services, Piper

Books & works: Long Story Short: Stories From a Lifetime in the Cockpit

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