Ways to apply for an Airworthiness Certificate

To the layperson, an “airworthiness certificate” sounds like just a regular “aircraft registration,” but they’re actually two very different things. This is one of the more common questions we get at our site. After all (as many argue), isn’t that what aircraft registration should ultimately do: determine whether or not an aircraft is airworthy? This certificate is actually quite different, and it judges an aircraft on an entirely different set of criteria. Below, we’ll touch on what those criteria are, and which might be right for your aircraft.

Airworthiness Certificate Defined

The idea behind this kind of certificate is that it shows if an aircraft “meets its approved type design, is in a condition for safe operations and maintenance, preventative maintenance, and alterations are performed in accordance with 14 CFR parts 21, 43 and 91.” That language was lifted directly from the FAA. Basically, it means “is your aircraft safe, and can it do what your model of aircraft is supposed to do?” An aircraft that can meet those requirements will most likely qualify for this particular kind of certificate.

Standard Certificate

The “Standard” certificate determines the airworthiness of quite a few of the kinds of airplanes you most commonly see. That includes “Normal” airplanes, as well as “Transport” and “Commuter” ones. However, those are far from the only kinds of aircraft that are determined by this certification. This also includes “Acrobatic” airplanes, which rarely are what come to mind when someone’s thinking about aircraft which are “standard.” Additionally, this certification also covers “manned free balloons” as well. “Standard,” in this case, has a wide-ranging definition.

Special Certificate

Planes with this kind of certification are still airworthy. However, they specifically are not airworthy to use in cargo operations or commercial passenger ones. So, these planes are still certified to perform in the manner in which this model of plane is, but they can’t legally be used to transport people around the country or anything outside the stipulated definitions. These planes include those are used for aerial advertising or surveying. This also includes planes used for air racing, weather control, agriculture or similar fields. These planes can still get their job done, but their job can’t be carrying cargo or people in a commercial capacity.

Beyond Airworthiness

You can get any kind of certificate for airworthiness you need right at our site. That means you can get the Standard, the Special, or the Multiple. We make it simple to get the right kind of certificate for your plane. Now, we know that some of these terms and definitions can be a bit confusing. So if you have any questions about what kind of certificate to get for your plane, just give us a call. We’re always glad to talk to folks about their aircraft and help in any way that we can. As plane owners ourselves, we want the process to be as simple and transparent as possible. Feel free to give us a call at (800) 357-0893.