Abstract: Solid state power controller (SSPC) is the intelligent switch constituted by the semiconductor device and is used to turn on and off the circuit, as well as protecting the circuit. Because of its low power consumption and high reliability, SSPC is getting widely used in modern aircraft electrical system. At the same time, arc fault has proved to be one of the factors threatening the normal operation of aviation electrical equipment, and is likely to cause serious disaster. In this paper, the structure of SSPC with arc fault detection (AFD) function has been described, and the classification, characteristics, simulation and test methods of aviation arc are introduced. After summarizing the AFD methods, we conclude the present problems AFD technology facing for aviation SSPC.