Changes in Accounting Estimates (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
Apr. 30, 2018	Apr. 30, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Changes in Accounting Estimates
Income from continuing operations	$ 32,537	$ 20,749	$ 18,376
Net income attributable to AeroVironment	$ 20,068	$ 12,479	$ 8,966
Net income per share attributable to AeroVironment - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.86	$ 0.54	$ 0.39
Net income per share attributable to AeroVironment - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.84	$ 0.54	$ 0.39

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The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period.

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The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period.

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Amount of income (loss) from continuing operations, including income (loss) from equity method investments, before deduction of income tax expense (benefit), and income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest.

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Amount, after deduction of tax, noncontrolling interests, dividends on preferred stock and participating securities; of income (loss) available to common shareholders.

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