GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2011	Apr. 30, 2011	Jul. 31, 2012
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balances as of October 31, 2011				$ 443,402
Goodwill acquired				84,101
Adjustments to goodwill				10,145
Foreign currency translation adjustments				(6,363)
Other				309
Balances as of July 31, 2012	531,594			531,594
Flight Support Group [Member]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balances as of October 31, 2011				192,357
Goodwill acquired				0
Adjustments to goodwill				0
Foreign currency translation adjustments				0
Other				309
Balances as of July 31, 2012	192,666			192,666
Electronic Technologies Group [Member]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Balances as of October 31, 2011				251,045
Goodwill acquired				84,101
Adjustments to goodwill	10,100	1,300	4,100	10,145
Foreign currency translation adjustments				(6,363)
Other				0
Balances as of July 31, 2012	$ 338,928			$ 338,928