📘14 CFR §43 Appendix A – Major Alterations, Major Repairs, and Preventive Maintenance

🚩 Overview

Appendix A to Part 43 categorizes maintenance tasks into three main groups: major alterations, major repairs, and preventive maintenance. Understanding these categories helps clarify pilot privileges, mechanic responsibilities, and regulatory compliance.

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✅ Maintenance Categories and Examples

🛠 1. Major Alterations

Defined as alterations not listed in the aircraft’s original specifications or that significantly impact the aircraft’s characteristics or performance.

Examples:

• Installation of new avionics systems.

• Major modifications to airframe structures (e.g., installing winglets).

• Engine replacements or conversions.

🔧 2. Major Repairs

Repairs that, if improperly performed, could significantly affect aircraft performance, structural strength, or safety.

Examples:

• Major structural repairs (wing spar, landing gear structural components).

• Repairs to propellers or primary flight controls.

• Extensive engine or airframe structural repair following damage.

🛠️ 3. Preventive Maintenance

Simple or minor preservation operations and replacement of small, non-critical parts. Private pilots or higher can legally perform these tasks on aircraft they own or operate.

Examples:

• Oil and filter changes.

• Tire replacement.

• Spark plug cleaning and gapping.

• Replacement of landing gear shock cords.

• Replacement of bulbs or fuses.

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🛩️ Example Scenario

As a private pilot owner, you're allowed to change the oil and filters or replace tires on your aircraft, clearly documenting this preventive maintenance in your logbooks. However, structural repairs after a hard landing must be performed by an appropriately rated FAA mechanic, classified as a major repair.

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📌 CFI Pro Tips

• Clarify Privileges: Teach students explicitly which preventive maintenance tasks they're permitted to perform and stress accurate documentation in logbooks.

• Understanding Limitations: Reinforce the importance of knowing when a task requires a certified mechanic or specialized FAA approval.

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📚 Further Reading and Official References

• Appendix A to Part 43 (Full FAA Regulation): https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-43/appendix-Appendix%20A%20to%20Part%2043

• FAA Advisory Circular AC 43-12A (Preventive Maintenance): https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_43-12A_CHG_1.pdf

• FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge – Maintenance: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak