📘14 CFR §43.7 – Persons Authorized to Approve Aircraft for Return to Service

🚩 Overview

After maintenance or alterations, aircraft must be explicitly approved for return to service by specifically authorized personnel. This ensures aircraft are maintained in an airworthy and safe condition.

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✅ Key Authorized Individuals and Entities

The following individuals or entities may approve an aircraft for return to service after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alterations:

🔧 1. FAA-Certificated Mechanics

• Mechanics with FAA-issued Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificates can approve an aircraft for return to service for work within their rated privileges.

📑 2. Inspection Authorization (IA) Holders

• Mechanics holding an FAA-issued Inspection Authorization (IA) may approve aircraft for return to service following annual inspections, major repairs, and major alterations.

🏢 3. Certified Repair Stations

• FAA-approved Part 145 repair stations can issue return-to-service approvals within the scope of their FAA-issued ratings.

🛠️ 4. Aircraft Manufacturers

• Original aircraft manufacturers holding FAA production certificates are authorized to approve aircraft for return to service related to work on aircraft they produce.

✈️ 5. Air Carriers

• Air carriers or operators certified under Part 121, 125, or 135 are authorized to approve their aircraft for return to service per their approved manuals and procedures.

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🛩️ Example Scenario

After completing your aircraft's annual inspection, your FAA-certificated mechanic with Inspection Authorization (IA) must formally approve your aircraft for return to service, documenting this approval in the aircraft’s maintenance logbook. Ensure this documentation is complete and correct before operating the aircraft again.

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📌 CFI Pro Tips

• Clarify Authorization Roles: Clearly instruct your students about who can authorize return-to-service approvals after specific types of maintenance or inspections.

• Emphasize Record Verification: Teach students to verify approval entries in logbooks, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations before flying.

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📚 Further Reading and Official References

• 14 CFR §43.7 (Full FAA Regulation): https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-43/section-43.7

• FAA Advisory Circular AC 43-9C (Maintenance Records and Return to Service): https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_43-9C_CHG_2.pdf

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