When the average individual looks up at planes crossing through the sky, they probably do not put much thought into how they actually work. In truth, airplanes are a marvel of modern engineering, and they rely on a complex series of mechanisms in order to travel from point A to point B. If you happen to own and pilot your own plane, you have a responsibility to keep your plane well-maintained and in good working order. This is not only paramount to your own safety but also to that of your passengers and people on the ground. As airplanes are rigorously tested and designed to last, it is not unusual for there to be planes in the sky that are more than 10 or even 20 years old. For older aircraft, keeping on top of routine maintenance and safety inspections is a must, and periodically, you may need to obtain an airplane airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The FAA has a long, notable history in the United States. Having existed–in one form or another–since roughly the advent of commercial air travel, this federal agency is tasked with keeping our skies safe for pilots and passengers alike. The FAA carries out this responsibility in a number of ways. They manage air traffic control at airports throughout the country, issue pilot licenses to new aviators, and they maintain a thorough registry of all aircraft owned in the United States. The FAA also issues airworthiness certificates to plane owners which serve to demonstrate that their aircraft are safe for travel. Read on to learn more about what this document is, as well as how you can get yours online by using our streamlined, fillable forms.
What Is an Airplane Airworthiness Certificate?
At a very high level, an airworthiness certificate is a document that is issued by the FAA which certifies that an aircraft is safe for flight. These documents can only be issued to the registered owners of the aircraft, or a designated agent working on behalf of that owner. For new aircraft, the FAA will review plans and designs, as well as perform tests for landing and take-off. When it comes to older aircraft, they will perform similar flight tests while also reviewing maintenance and repair records. If the FAA deems an aircraft no longer suitable for air travel, they do have the power to revoke an airworthiness certificate.
To obtain an airworthiness certificate for your plane, you will need to complete what is called an FAA Form 8130-6 – Application for U.S. Airworthiness Certificate. This document will ask for a number of specific details about your aircraft, including its engine and propeller types. You will also need to provide some information about the builders, as well as yourself, the owner.
Get Up in the Air Today!
Stuck on the ground without an airworthiness certificate? Apply for yours online today by using our web forms. At the National Aviation Center, we have all the fillable documents you need on one site. Take a look around our site today to learn more.