U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular Subject: CERTIFICATION AND OPERATION Date: 9/26/01 AC No. 20-27E OF AMATEUR-BUILT AIRCRAFT Initiated by: AIR-200 _______________________________________________
1. PURPOSE. This advisory circular (AC) contains information and guidance on the fabrication and assembly, airworthiness certification, and operation of amateur-built aircraft of all types; explains the amount of fabrication and assembly the builder must accomplish for the aircraft to be eligible for amateur-built certification; and describes the role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the certification process. The information contained herein sets forth an acceptable means, but not the only means, for compliance with the applicable sections of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 21, Certification Procedures for Products and Parts (part 21).
2. CANCELLATION. AC 20-27D, Certification and Operation of Amateur-Built Aircraft, dated June 22, 1990, is canceled.
3. PRINCIPAL CHANGES.
a. Information for placard installation and cockpit instrument marking has been added.
b. Information for the evaluation and operation of system controls has been added.
c. Guidance regarding commercial assistance has been added.
d. Information in the examples of applicable forms has been revised.
e. Operating limitations have been removed to avoid any inconsistencies with those contained in FAA Order 8130.2, Airworthiness Certification of Aircraft and Related Products.
f. Acronyms referring to Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations have been changed from FAR to 14 CFR.
4. DEFINITIONS. The following terms are defined for use in this AC:
a. Amateur-Built Aircraft. An aircraft in which the major portion has been fabricated and assembled by a person(s) who undertook the construction process solely for their own education or recreation.
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b. Commercial Assistance. Assistance in the fabrication and assembly of amateur-built aircraft in exchange for compensation. This does not include one person helping another without compensation.
c. Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Technical Counselor and Flight Advisor Programs. As defined by the EAA, Technical Counselors provide overall mechanical assistance and pre-cover guidance to owners/builders. EAA Flight Advisors provide pre-purchase aircraft vs. pilot skills suitability reviews and first test flight preparation guidance to owners/builders.
d. Fabricate. To construct a structure or component from raw stock or materials.
e. FAA Inspector. For the purpose of this AC, an Aviation Safety Inspector and/or an authorized Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR).
f. FAA Office. An FAA office with airworthiness certification authority; to include the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), Manufacturing Inspection District Office (MIDO), Certificate Management Office (CMO), Certificate Management Unit (CMU), or Manufacturing Inspection Satellite Office (MISO) that may delegate the airworthiness inspection and certification of an amateur-built aircraft.
g. Kit-Built Aircraft. An aircraft that is constructed from a manufactured kit that may include some major sub-assemblies and/or pre-assembled components. This description does not include primary category aircraft as defined in section 21.184.
h. Major Portion. As related to a special airworthiness certificate issued for the purpose of operating amateur-built aircraft, major portion means that when the aircraft is completed, the majority of the fabrication and assembly tasks have been performed by the amateur builder(s). When purchasing a partially completed kit or aircraft, the major portion includes the construction efforts of the previous amateur aircraft builders, and those past efforts should be added to the new builder's "builder's log" to show the construction history of the kit or aircraft.
i. Person. An individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, joint-stock association, or governmental entity. It includes a trustee, receiver, assignee, or similar representative of any of them.
j. Plans-Built Aircraft. An aircraft constructed from plans/blueprints without the aid of purchased major sub-assemblies or pre-assembled kit components, and includes aircraft of a builder's original design.
5. RELATED PUBLICATIONS.
a. 14 CFR part 1, Definitions and Abbreviations (part 1).
b. 14 CFR part 21, Certification Procedures for Products and Parts (part 21).
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c. 14 CFR part 43, Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alteration (part 43), Appendix D.
d. 14 CFR part 45, Identification and Registration Marking (part 45).
e. 14 CFR part 47, Aircraft Registration (part 47).
f. 14 CFR part 65, Certification: Airmen Other than Flight Crewmembers (part 65).
g. 14 CFR part 91, General Operating and Flight Rules (part 91).
h. 14 CFR part 103, Ultralight Vehicles (part 103).
i. FAA Order 8130.2, Airworthiness Certification of Aircraft and Related Products.
j. AC 20-139, Commercial Assistance During Construction of Amateur-Built Aircraft.
k. AC 21-12, Application for U.S. Airworthiness Certificate, FAA Form 8130-6.
l. AC 43.13-1, Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices-Aircraft Inspection and Repair.
m. AC 43.13-2, Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices-Aircraft Alterations.
n. AC 45-2, Identification and Registration Marking.
o. AC 65-23, Certification of Repairman (Experimental Aircraft Builders).
p. AC 90-89, Amateur-Built Aircraft & Ultralight Flight Testing Handbook.
6. BACKGROUND. Part 21 provides for the issuance of FAA Form 8130-7, Special Airworthiness Certificate, in the Experimental Category, to permit the operation of an amateur-built aircraft.
Section 21.191(g) defines an amateur-built aircraft as an aircraft in which the major portion of the aircraft has been fabricated and assembled by persons who undertook the construction project solely for their own education or recreation. During the construction of an amateur-built aircraft, commercially produced components and parts, including engine and engine accessories, propellers, tires, landing gear, main and tail rotor blades, rotor hubs, wheel and brake assemblies, forgings, castings, and extrusions may be used. In addition, standard aircraft hardware such as pulleys, bell cranks, rod ends, bearings, bolts, rivets, etc., may be used. Commercial assistance in the fabrication and assembly of an amateur-built aircraft is allowed and is discussed in this AC. Specific details on the use of commercial assistance are available in AC 20-139.
7. FAA INSPECTION CRITERIA.
a. The amateur-built program is designed to permit persons to build an aircraft solely for educational or recreational purposes utilizing acceptable aeronautical construction standards and practices. Amateur
Page 4 Par 7 builders are free to develop their own designs or build from existing designs. The FAA does not approve those designs nor would it be practical to develop design standards for the multitude of unique design configurations generated by designers, kit manufacturers, and amateur builders. Upon completion of the building process, the FAA inspects the aircraft, to verify to the extent feasible, the use of acceptable workmanship methods, techniques, and practices, and then issues an airworthiness certificate with appropriate operating limitations.
b. In addition to the requirements of 14 CFR, guidelines by which the aircraft are operated and maintained are prescribed in aircraft operating limitations, which become a part of the special airworthiness certificate. The FAA may impose additional limitations to those listed in Order 8130.2 when deemed necessary in the interest of safety. References in this AC to "Phase I" refer to those operating limitations that apply to the aircraft while undergoing its initial test flights, and "Phase II" refers to those operating limitations that apply after completion of all initial test flights.
c. The FAA has designated private persons to act on its behalf in the inspection of amateur-built aircraft and the issuance of airworthiness certificates. Those persons are known as Designated Airworthiness Representatives (DARs) and are authorized to charge a fee for their services. The fee is set by the DAR and is not governed by the FAA. DARs are considered by the FAA as the primary resource for certification of amateur-built aircraft. The amateur builder may contact the local FAA office to locate a DAR.
(1) The FAA inspector will conduct a visual inspection of the aircraft prior to issuance of the special airworthiness certificate with Phase I operating limitations. Issuance of the special airworthiness certificate and Phase I operating limitations will enable the applicant to show compliance with section 91.319(b). The inspection will include a review of the information required by section 21.193, the aircraft builder's documentation, and examination of the completed aircraft to verify to the extent feasible that acceptable workmanship has been used in the construction process. Also, the appropriate operating limitations will be prescribed at that time.
(2) The FAA inspector may elect to issue amateur-built operating limitations on a one-time basis for determining compliance with section 91.319(b) and continued operation under section 21.191(g).
Under this procedure, the aircraft may be inspected by the FAA inspector once prior to flight testing.
The special airworthiness certificate will be issued, but its validity will be subject to compliance with its operating limitations. Those limitations will provide for operation in an assigned flight test area for a certain number of hours (Phase I) before the second part (Phase II) of the limitations become effective, releasing the aircraft from the test area.
(a) For Phase I limitations, the FAA will prescribe operating limitations appropriate for the applicant to demonstrate that the aircraft is controllable throughout its normal range of speeds and maneuvers and has no hazardous operating characteristics or design features. The flights will be conducted over water or sparsely populated areas having light air traffic in accordance with section 91.305. Upon completion of the assigned flight test period, the pilot will endorse the aircraft logbook with a statement certifying compliance with the requirements of section 91.319(b). The aircraft may then be operated in accordance with Phase II limitations.
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(b) For Phase II limitations, the FAA will prescribe operating limitations for the operation of an amateur-built aircraft for an unlimited duration. Phase I and II operating limitations are provided in Order 8130.2.
8. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION.
a. Many individuals who wish to build their own aircraft have little or no experience with respect to aeronautical practices, workmanship, or design. One source for advice in such matters is the EAA (see appendix 1 of this AC). The EAA is an organization established for the purpose of promoting aviation safety, construction of amateur-built aircraft, and providing technical advice and assistance to its members. The EAA has implemented the Technical Counselors Program to assist in ensuring the safety and dependability of amateur-built aircraft. EAA Technical Counselors are sometimes available to visit an amateur-built aircraft project and offer constructive advice regarding workmanship to EAA members. The EAA has advised the FAA that it will not provide technical assistance to the builder in designing an aircraft.
b. Amateur builders have adopted a practice of calling upon persons having expertise with aircraft construction techniques to inspect particular components (e.g., wing assemblies, fuselages, etc.) prior to covering, and to conduct other inspections as necessary. Those persons include EAA Technical Counselors, persons with aviation design and/or engineering experience, mechanics with aircraft, airframe, and powerplant experience, and other aircraft builders. This practice has proven to be an effective means of ensuring construction integrity and an acceptable level of safety.
c. The FAA does not expect the builder to personally fabricate every part of the aircraft; some components may be purchased. Any choice of engines, propellers, wheels, or other components, and any choice of materials may be used in the construction of amateur-built aircraft. It is recommended that FAA-approved components (e.g., components produced in accordance with a Production Certificate, a Technical Standard Order (TSO) authorization, or Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) and established aircraft quality material (e.g., military specification, SAE, AN, etc.)) be used, especially in fabricating parts constituting the primary structure, such as wing spars, critical attachment fittings, and fuselage structural members. Materials whose identity and/or quality cannot be established should not be used.
The use of major components (e.g., wings, fuselage, empennage, etc.) from type certificated and/or experimental aircraft may be used in the construction as long as the builder can determine these components are in a condition for safe operation. This description refers to the condition of that component relative to structural strength, wear, or deterioration due to fatigue, corrosion, etc. It should be noted that no credit for fabrication will be given for those components. FAA Form 8000-38, Fabrication and Assembly Checklist (appendix 10 of this AC), may be used as an aid in determining if the use of those components would affect the builder's requirement to fabricate and assemble the major portion of the aircraft. Several tasks may be contracted commercially and include installation of avionics, upholstery, and painting.
d. The design of the cockpit or cabin of the aircraft should avoid or provide for padding on sharp corners or edges, protrusions, knobs, and similar objects that may cause injury to the pilot or passengers in the event of an accident. It is recommended that only FAA TSO-approved seat belts be installed
Page 6 Par 8 along with approved shoulder harnesses. Cockpit instruments should be appropriately marked and needed placards should be installed and placed for easy reference. A fuel selector should be readily available to the pilot to allow for shut off and flow of all tanks, and should be labeled appropriately.
Careful attention should be given to the appropriate evaluation and operation of system controls (e.g., fuel selector(s) and electrical switches/breakers) to ensure they are appropriately placed, clearly marked, and provide easy access and operation. Reference AC 90-89 for additional information. It is also recommended that the amateur builder use the sample checklist in appendix 1 of AC 90-89 to inspect cockpit instrumentation and systems controls.
e. The fuel tank installation should ensure adequate fuel is supplied to the engine in all anticipated flight attitudes, and that a firewall is placed between the engine compartment and the cockpit or cabin.
When applicable, a carburetor heat system should be provided to minimize the possibility of carburetor icing.
f. Additional information and guidance concerning fabrication and assembly are provided in AC 43.13-l and 43.13-2. These publications are available from the United States (U.S.) Government offices listed in paragraph 20 of this AC, and for review at local FAA offices.
g. If the amateur builder is working from plans or a construction kit, any modifications to the design or kit should be discussed with the designer, the kit manufacturer, or other equally knowledgeable person(s). During construction, these modifications should be recorded in the builder's log.
9. AIRCRAFT CONSTRUCTION KITS.
a. Construction kits containing raw materials and some prefabricated components may be used in building an amateur-built aircraft. However, aircraft that are assembled from kits composed of completely finished, prefabricated components and parts are not eligible for certification as amateur-built aircraft if the major portion of the aircraft will not have been fabricated and assembled by the builder.
b. An aircraft built from a kit may be eligible for amateur-built certification, provided the major portion has been fabricated and assembled by the amateur builder. Owners will jeopardize eligibility for amateur-built certification if they hire someone to build the aircraft for them. Commercial assistance that reduces the amount of fabrication and assembly performed by the amateur builder to less than the major portion required by section 21.191(g) would render the aircraft ineligible for certification as an amateur-built experimental aircraft. Kits may consist of raw stock such as lengths of wood, tubing, extrusions, etc., that may have been cut to an approximate length. A certain quantity of prefabricated parts such as heat-treated ribs, bulkheads, or complex parts made from sheet metal, fiberglass, or polystyrene, and precut/predrilled material would also be acceptable, provided the aircraft met the major portion of the fabrication and assembly requirement.
c. Various material/parts kits for the construction of aircraft are available for use by aircraft builders.
Advertisements may be somewhat vague, and in some cases misleading, as to whether an aircraft kit is eligible for amateur-built certification. It is not advisable to obtain a kit before verifying the aircraft,
Par 9 Page 7 upon completion, will be eligible for certification as an amateur-built under existing regulations and established policy. The FAA does not certify nor approve aircraft kits, kit manufacturers, or kit distributors. However, the FAA does perform evaluations of kits, at the request of the kit manufacturer/distributor, primarily for the purpose of determining if an aircraft built from a particular kit would meet the major portion criteria. The placement of a kit on the Listing of Eligible Amateur-Built Aircraft Kits is not a prerequisite for amateur-built certification. A current listing of eligible kits may be obtained by contacting the local FAA office for the current website address.
d. Purchasers of partially completed kits or plans-built aircraft should obtain all fabrication and assembly records (e.g., receipts for materials, builder's log, and aircraft/engine/propeller logbooks) from the previous owner(s). This information may enable the builder who completes the aircraft to be eligible for amateur-built certification.
10. REGISTRATION INFORMATION. Section 21.173 requires that all U.S. civil aircraft be registered before any airworthiness certificate can be issued. Part 47 prescribes the regulatory requirements for registering civil aircraft. The procedures for registering an amateur-built aircraft are as follows:
a. The aircraft owner/applicant should submit the required documentation, in accordance with section 47.33, to the Aircraft Registration Branch, AFS-750, (see appendix 2 of this AC). AC Form 8050-88, Affidavit of Ownership for Amateur-Built Aircraft, or its equivalent may be submitted.
The affidavit must also contain a statement that the aircraft was built from parts or kits and that the signer(s) is/are the owner(s). This affidavit establishes ownership of the aircraft (see appendix 3 of this AC). If the aircraft was built from a kit, the applicant must also submit a signed bill of sale from the manufacturer of the kit. AC Form 8050-2, Aircraft Bill Of Sale, may be used provided the word "aircraft" is marked through and the word "kit" is inserted in its place (see appendix 4 of this AC). If for some reason the owner cannot provide a bill of sale for the kit, a statement should be submitted to explain why a bill of sale cannot be provided. Amateur aircraft builders who are not the original purchaser of an uncompleted kit must be able to provide traceability from the kit manufacturer, through the previous owners, to themselves, and provide that information to AFS-750. The owner should also submit a completed AC Form 8050-1, Aircraft Registration Application (see appendix 5 of this AC).
The documents should be accompanied by a registration fee of $5 in the form of a check or money order payable to the FAA. It is recommended that application for registration of an amateur-built aircraft be submitted 60 to 90 days prior to completion of construction and FAA inspection for airworthiness certification.
b. AFS-750 may assign a random registration number (N-number) to an amateur-built aircraft for no additional fee. The owner may request a special registration number by submitting a letter listing up to five possible registration numbers, in order of preference (see appendix 2 of this AC). Registration numbers are made up of one to five symbols, the last two which may be alphabetical. The fee for obtaining a special registration number is $10. If a special number is being requested along with registration, a total fee of $15 would be required. Registration numbers may be reserved for a period of one year for a fee of $10. If the number is not assigned to an aircraft during this period, the reservation may be renewed annually by paying an additional $10 fee before the end of each renewal period.
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c. After receipt of the applicant's letter requesting a special or random number assignment, AFS-750 will send a letter to the applicant giving the N-number assigned, a blank AC Form 8050-1, and other registration information. THIS LETTER DOES NOT CONSTITUTE REGISTRATION OF THE AIRCRAFT. The applicant should complete and return the white original and green copy of AC Form 8050-1 to AFS-750 as soon as practical, accompanied with the appropriate fee. The pink copy of the application may be retained by the applicant until receipt of AC Form 8050-3, Certificate of Aircraft Registration.
d. Since the applicant's amateur-built aircraft has never been registered nor received airworthiness certification, the pink copy cannot be used as temporary authority to operate the aircraft, nor can FAA Form 8130-6, Application for Airworthiness Certificate, be accepted by the FAA for consideration unless the FAA has verified that the aircraft has been registered. Prior to FAA inspection, the FAA inspector will contact AFS-750 to verify that the aircraft has been registered. However, if the procedures in this AC are followed, the applicant should receive the Certificate of Aircraft Registration before the actual FAA airworthiness inspection.
11. IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION MARKING. When applying for an airworthiness certificate for an amateur-built aircraft, the builder must show compliance with the identification requirements of section 21.182 and the nationality and registration marking requirements of part 45.
a. The aircraft must be identified by means of a fireproof identification plate that is etched, stamped, engraved, or marked by some other approved fireproof marking. The term "fireproof" is defined in part 1 as "has the capacity to withstand the heat associated with fire at least as well as steel in dimensions appropriate for the purpose for which they are used." For example, should an aircraft constructed of wood and fabric be destroyed by fire, the identification plate should remain intact. The identification plate must be secured in such a manner that it will not be defaced or removed during normal service, or lost or destroyed in an accident. Attachment by riveting or bonding is acceptable.
Section 45.11 requires the identification plate to be located on the exterior either adjacent to and aft of the rear-most entrance door or on the fuselage near the tail surfaces, and must be legible to a person standing on the ground.
b. The information placed on an amateur-built aircraft identification plate must include the name of the amateur builder (not the designer, plans producer, or kit manufacturer), the model designation, and the serial number of the aircraft. The model designation and serial number may be whatever number the builder wishes to assign, if the aircraft is of the builder's own design and not used to identify any other aircraft. If the aircraft is built from a kit or plans, the builder should use the identification information provided by the kit manufacturer or plans designer. All information should agree with the information submitted on AC Form 8050-88.
c. The builder should refer to sections 45.22 and 45.25 for definition of specific requirements for the location of registration marks for fixed-wing aircraft. The location of registration marks for
Par 11 Page 9 non-fixed wing aircraft is specified in section 45.27. All registration marks should be painted on or affixed by any means ensuring a similar degree of permanence. A degree of permanence is shown when paint used to apply required markings is of a type that requires thinners or strippers to remove it, or when the markings are affixed in the form of decals. The use of tape which can easily be peeled off, or water soluble paint such as poster paint, is not acceptable.
d. Most amateur-built aircraft are required to display nationality and registration marks with a minimum height of 3 inches. However, if the maximum cruising speed of the aircraft exceeds 180 knots calibrated air speed (207 miles per hour), the size of the marks must be at least 12 inches in height. The 12-inch markings are also required for any operation outside the United States or if any Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) is penetrated. In accordance with section 45.23(b), the word "Experimental" shall be displayed on the aircraft near each entrance to the cabin or cockpit in letters not less than 2 inches and not more than 6 inches in height. If the amateur-built aircraft has the same external configuration (i.e., is a replica) of a small aircraft built at least 30 years ago, the size of the nationality and registration markings must be at least 2 inches high. For replica aircraft only, the letter "X" may be used and the word "Experimental" would not be required. For example, markings on an amateur-built replica of an antique aircraft would be "NX1234." The letter/symbol used should be appropriate for the airworthiness certificate of the aircraft being certificated, not the aircraft being replicated.
NOTE: Part 45 subpart C provides specific marking requirements for all aircraft.
AC 45-2, Identification and Registration Marking, provides additional guidance and information and describes acceptable means of complying with marking requirements. Any questions in this area should be resolved on an individual basis through consultation with the FAA office that will perform the airworthiness certification.
12. CERTIFICATION PROCESS. The following procedures, in general order, are to be followed in the certification process:
a. Initial Step. The prospective builder should first contact the nearest FAA office. During this initial contact, the type of aircraft, its complexity, and/or materials should be discussed. The builder should provide a three-view sketch, drawing, or photograph of the proposed aircraft project and a tentative completion date of the project. The FAA should provide the prospective builder with any guidance and information necessary to ensure a thorough understanding of applicable regulations, with emphasis on the following items:
(1) FAA inspection will be limited to a general airworthiness inspection when the aircraft is submitted for airworthiness certification. The FAA inspector cannot be involved in the building process and will not perform any progressive or in-process inspections during the building process. The in-process inspections should be conducted by a knowledgeable person (e.g., EAA Technical Counselor, etc.) and should be documented in the aircraft logbook.
(2) The builder will be required, at time of application for airworthiness certification, to submit a program letter in accordance with section 21.193, identifying the aircraft, the purpose of the certificate
Page 10 Par 12 (operating an amateur-built aircraft), and describing a flight test program that addresses the requirements, goals, and objectives during flight testing of the aircraft, including the area over which the test flights will be conducted (see appendix 8 of this AC). This letter provides information to the FAA for prescribing adequate limitations and conditions necessary to ensure safety. AC 90-89 is an excellent source of information to assist amateur builders in developing aircraft flight test plans.
(3) The FAA office, when requested, will furnish the builder with the following forms:
(a) AC Form 8050-1, Aircraft Registration Application.
(b) AC Form 8050-88, Affidavit of Ownership for Amateur-Built Aircraft.
(c) FAA Form 8130-6, Application for Airworthiness Certificate.
(d) FAA Form 8130-12, Eligibility Statement, Amateur-Built Aircraft.
(e) FAA Form 8610-2, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application.
b. Registration. The procedures for aircraft registration are found in paragraph 10 of this AC. The aircraft should be registered prior to submitting Form 8130-6 to the FAA.
c. Marking. The registration number (N-number) assigned to the aircraft and an identification plate should be affixed to the aircraft in accordance with sections 21.182 and 45.11. Detailed procedures are in paragraph 11 of this AC.
d. Application. The builder may apply for a special airworthiness certificate by submitting the following documents and data to the FAA.
(1) Form 8130-6 (see appendix 6 of this AC).
(2) AC Form 8050-3.
(3) Sufficient data, such as photographs or three-view drawings, to identify the aircraft.
(4) A notarized Form 8130-12, certifying the major portion of the aircraft was fabricated and assembled for education or recreation, and that evidence (e.g., builder's log or equivalent) is available to support this statement. See appendix 7 of this AC.
(5) A program letter in accordance with section 21.193.
(6) Evidence of inspections, such as construction log entries signed by the amateur builder or other knowledgeable persons, e.g., EAA Technical Counselors, certified mechanics, or other builders,
Par 12 Page 11 describing the inspections conducted during construction of the aircraft, in addition to photographic documentation of construction details. Those entries should indicate what was inspected, by whom, and the date of the inspection.
(7) Logbooks for the aircraft, engine, and propeller/rotor blade(s) to allow for review of service records, recording the inspection, and certification by the FAA inspector. Logbook entries will substantiate that the construction has been accomplished in accordance with acceptable workmanship methods, techniques, and practices and support the owner's inspection and airworthiness statement on Form 8130-6.
NOTE: The review of documents listed in paragraphs 12d(6) and (7) are reviewed during the FAA on-site certification inspection of the aircraft.
e. Aircraft Inspection.
(1) The applicant should be prepared to furnish to the FAA an aircraft complete and ready to fly except for cowlings, fairings, and panels opened for inspection. The FAA will perform a general airworthiness inspection of the aircraft. The inspection will be performed by simple means and will not normally require the removal of equipment or components, or the disassembly of any part of the aircraft.
The only reason extensive disassembly would be requested is when there is a question of safety that would endanger the pilot or general public.
NOTE: The FAA does not certify amateur-built aircraft designs or require that the amateur builder modify the design prior to airworthiness certification. However, the FAA may deny airworthiness certification if, upon inspection, the aircraft does not meet the requirements for the certification requested and is not in a condition for safe operation. The FAA inspector who denies an airworthiness certificate shall provide a letter to the applicant stating the reason(s) for denying the airworthiness certificate. A copy will be forwarded to the Aircraft Registry to be made a part of the aircraft record. Reference section 21.193(c) and Order 8130.2.
(2) After inspection of the documents and data submitted with the application, the applicant should expect the FAA inspector to inspect the aircraft. The FAA inspector will verify that all required markings are properly applied, including the following placard (this placard is not applicable to single-place aircraft). The placard shall be displayed inside the aircraft, in letters at least 3/8 inches in height, in a location easily visible, and legible to all persons entering the aircraft:
"PASSENGER NOTICE: THIS AIRCRAFT IS AMATEUR-BUILT AND DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL SAFETY REGULATIONS FOR STANDARD AIRCRAFT"
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f. Issuance of Airworthiness Certificate.
(1) Upon completion of the inspection and the determination that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation, the FAA will issue Form 8130-7, together with appropriate operating limitations, in accordance with Order 8130.2.
(2) Details concerning flight test areas are contained in paragraph 13 of this AC. The operating limitations are a part of the airworthiness certificate and must be displayed with the certificate when the aircraft is operated. It is the responsibility of the pilot to conduct all flights in accordance with the operating limitations, as well as the General Operating and Flight Rules in part 91.
(3) Standard FAA policy is to issue one airworthiness certificate for the aircraft. In some cases an inspector may issue a limited duration airworthiness certificate which would only be valid for test flying (Phase I) the aircraft. Upon satisfactory completion of all test flight maneuvers and required test flight hours, the amateur builder of the aircraft may apply to the local FAA office for amended operating limitations by submitting another Form 8130-6, along with a letter requesting amendment of operating limitations. Prior to issuance of the amended airworthiness certificate and operating limitations (Phase II), the applicant should expect the FAA to review the flight log to determine whether corrective actions have been taken on any problems encountered during the flight testing and that the aircraft's condition for safe operation has been established in accordance with section 91.319. The FAA reserves the right to reinspect the aircraft upon completion of the Phase I flight test period.
(4) If the aircraft is fabricated from a kit identified as meeting the major portion rule, the FAA will verify that the aircraft description and configuration agree with the information given in the FAA listing of eligible amateur-built kits. Deviations from the FAA identified kit configuration will require the inspector to make an independent determination that the applicant fabricated and assembled the major portion of the aircraft, and may prolong the certification process.
13. FLIGHT TEST AREAS.
a. Amateur-built aircraft will initially be limited to operation within an assigned flight test area for a minimum of 25 hours when a type certificated (FAA-approved) engine/propeller combination is installed, or 40 hours when a non-type certificated engine/propeller combination is installed.
Amateur-built gliders, balloons, dirigibles, and ultralight vehicles found eligible in meeting the requirements of section 21.191(g) should be limited to operation within an assigned flight test area for a minimum of 10 hours of satisfactory operation, including at least five takeoffs and landings. The FAA may increase the time within an assigned flight test area as necessary to determine compliance with section 91.319(b).
NOTE: AC 90-89 contains recommended procedures for the flight testing of amateur-built aircraft. It is strongly recommended that amateur builders obtain a copy of this AC and follow its guidance. At the end of the test flight period, the amateur builder should be able to show compliance with section 91.319(b).