Learn MISRA-C-AVIONICS with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 27, 2025
Practical Examples
Avoid using pointer arithmetic that can cause undefined behavior
Replace dynamic memory allocation with static buffers
Eliminate unstructured control flow (goto statements)
Use explicit type casting rules to avoid implicit conversions
Document all rule deviations and rationale for certification audits
Troubleshooting
Static analyzer flags violations; review warnings and errors
Check for implicit conversions causing runtime issues
Validate memory usage and pointer operations
Verify module interface consistency
Document deviations and update compliance reports
Testing Guide
Run static analysis against all code modules
Validate deviations are justified and documented
Check compliance reports before build promotion
Unit test functional correctness for safety-critical modules
Integrate regression tests to maintain ongoing compliance
Deployment Options
Compile compliant C code for embedded avionics targets
Deploy with automated compliance report for certification
Use in RTOS-based avionics systems
Distribute code modules internally with verified MISRA adherence
Include compliance documentation in safety case
Tools Ecosystem
Static analyzers (LDRA, PC-lint, QA-C, Polyspace)
C compilers for target avionics hardware
Code review and version control systems
Documentation tools for compliance reporting
Unit testing frameworks for embedded C
Integrations
Integration with CI/CD pipelines for automated compliance checks
Linking with RTOS and hardware abstraction layers
Integration with DO-178C verification tools
Static analysis integrated into IDEs (Eclipse, Visual Studio, IAR)
External test data and simulation tools
Productivity Tips
Integrate static analysis early in development
Document deviations and justifications promptly
Modularize code to simplify compliance checking
Use compliant coding templates for new modules
Regularly review and update team practices with MISRA updates
Challenges
Understanding and enforcing complex rules
Managing justified deviations
Integrating static analysis in build pipelines
Balancing performance with rule compliance
Keeping up with evolving MISRA C updates