Airworthiness Requirements

Answer:

A Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) is a non-regulatory communication issued by the FAA to alert, educate, or recommend actions to aircraft owners, operators, and maintenance personnel about safety concerns that do not warrant an Airworthiness Directive (AD).

Answer:

Yes, AFM supplements are required to be onboard if they are part of the aircraft’s approved operating limitations. These supplements typically accompany modifications, such as those made under a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), and provide specific operating instructions and limitations for the modified systems or equipment.

This requirement is outlined in 14 CFR 91.9, which mandates that all operating limitations, including those in supplements, must be accessible in the aircraft.

Answer:

If the Airplane Flight Manual for an aircraft is missing, it's typically not permitted to fly due to FAA regulations. A temporary FAA-approved substitute may be allowed, such as an Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) from the same aircraft model, if verified. This reflects the stringent safety standards in aviation.

Answer:

To deactivate an inoperative item or system in your airplane, follow these steps under 14 CFR 91.213(d):

1. Determine If Deactivation Is Permitted:
   • Verify the inoperative item is not required by the aircraft’s Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS), Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH), 14 CFR 91.205, or an Airworthiness Directive (AD).
   • If the item is required, the aircraft cannot be legally operated until repairs are made.
2. Deactivate the Item:
   • Turn the system or item off and, if necessary, pull and collar the associated circuit breaker to prevent activation.
3. Placard the Item:
   • Clearly placard the control or item as "INOPERATIVE" to inform other pilots.
4. Log the Discrepancy (if required):
   • Record the inoperative item and deactivation in the maintenance log if specified by regulations.

You cannot deactivate any item that is critical for safe flight or required by regulation. If unsure, consult a certified mechanic or obtain a special flight permit from the FAA.

Answer:

A pilot can determine if all applicable ADs have been complied with by:

1. Reviewing the Aircraft Maintenance Logbooks:
   • Check for AD compliance records, which should include the AD number, method of compliance, date of completion, and signature of the person who performed the work.
   • Ensure recurring ADs have been completed at the required intervals.
2. Consulting the Aircraft’s Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS):
   • Identify which ADs apply to the specific make and model of the aircraft.
3. Using the FAA’s Dynamic Regulatory System (DRS):
   • Search for applicable ADs by the aircraft’s make, model, and serial number.
4. Asking a Certified Mechanic:
   • Request confirmation that the aircraft is in compliance with all applicable ADs during maintenance or inspections.

Answer:

Yes, you can legally continue the flight if the following conditions under 14 CFR 91.213(d) are met:

1. The VSI is not required by:
   • The aircraft’s Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS) or Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH).
   • 14 CFR 91.205 for VFR operations.
   • Any applicable Airworthiness Directive (AD).
2. Actions Required:
   • Deactivate and placard the VSI as "INOPERATIVE."
   • Ensure the aircraft is safe to operate without the VSI.
   • Record the discrepancy in the aircraft’s maintenance log if required.

Answer:

Complying with recommended TBO times ensures:

1. Safety: Prevents engine failures by addressing wear and tear before it becomes critical.
2. Reliability: Reduces the likelihood of in-flight mechanical issues.
3. Resale Value: Helps maintain the aircraft's market value with a well-documented maintenance history.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to Airworthiness Directives (ADs) if TBO is mandated.
5. Cost Management: Avoids higher repair costs by preventing catastrophic engine failures.