FAA Certification Lawyers

Assisting in Your Aircraft Certification Compliance

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enforces certifications, directives, standards, and regulations to ensure air carriers, manufacturers, repair and maintenance shops, operators, and other aviation businesses prioritize security, safety, and the protection of passengers and crew members.

To comply with these regulations, airports, airlines, and operators must complete all required certification processes. Failure to do so can result in severe consequences, potentially endangering crew members and passengers. This is where Aero Law Center can provide valuable assistance.

Two key certifications for operators include the Standard Airworthiness Certification and the Special Airworthiness Certification. Our firm works diligently to make the FAA certification process as seamless and stress-free as possible, helping clients meet regulatory requirements and achieve their aviation goals.

We also guide businesses of all sizes in understanding how FAA requirements apply to their operations and what steps are necessary to ensure compliance through certifications and other measures. Whether you need help with certification, compliance, or navigating complex FAA regulations, our team is here to support you at every stage.

What is the FAA?

The Federal Aviation Administration, or the “FAA” is an arm of the Department of Transportation (DOT). It controls aviation business matters, including air traffic management and the certification of personnel and aircraft. The FAA also sets the standard for airport conditions and protects U.S. assets during the launch of commercial space vehicles.

The FAA issues directives or legal regulations to ensure the safety of all airplanes, including correction for any unsafe conditions in an aircraft. This could include an aircraft’s plane, engine, propeller, or appliance. All operators must conduct business compliantly and follow the FAA’s guidance and provisions.

Regarding the FAA’s reach, the legal staff can refer certain violations, such as the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 or the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, to the Department of Justice for criminal prosecution. Other consequences of disregarding the FAA’s rules are license suspension, revocation of insurance, and fines.

Before applying for an FAA certification, consult an aviation lawyer to ensure your aviation business or aircraft is compliant.

What is FAA Certification?

The FAA uses its certification process to manage risk, ensure safety, and protect the public. All operators must be certified to fly a plane legally, and the presence of a certification affirms that all FAA requirements have been satisfied. In other words, it publicly proves the safety of an aircraft for all crew members and passengers.

Types of FAA Certifications

There are three types of certifications: type, production, and airworthiness.

Type certification is the approval of the design of the aircraft and its primary components—from propellers to engines to control stations. According to faa.gov, type certification illustrates that the aircraft design complies with noise, fuel, venting, exhaust emission standards, and general airworthiness or safety.
Production certification is the approval to manufacture duplicate products under an FAA-approved type design as long as duplication conforms.
Airworthiness certification might include a Standard or Special class that publicly highlights that the aircraft meets its approved type design and the condition is safe for operation.

The result of meeting the above standards is the FAA’s official authorization: a Standard Airworthiness Certificate. All pilots must have a Standard or Special Airworthiness Certification to fly. Any questions regarding the certification process or standards operators must follow is an area of knowledge our experienced international FAA certification attorneys can assist with.

What is an Airworthiness Certification?

To fly a plane legally, all operators must possess one of two Airworthiness Certifications: Standard Airworthiness Certification and Special Airworthiness Certification. These certificates must be visible in the aircraft—in the cockpit or cabin—to all passengers and crew members or for inspection purposes to prove the safety and condition of the aircraft. Planes that are not in good condition must be fixed, repaired, and re-certified.

A Standard Airworthiness Certification allows for the operation of a type of certificated aircraft, which can be operated and used with the most minimal restrictions for compensation and hire, per faa.gov regulations. This includes planes in the following categories: standard, utility, acrobatic, and commuter.

A Special Airworthiness Certificate limits the operations and use of an aircraft, specifically for research and development, showing compliance and regulations, crew training, exhibition, and market survey purposes.

Operators must obtain a certification that aligns with the purpose and type of aviation business, as well as complies with specific provisions as outlined by the FAA. Aero Law Center can help you determine the best approach for your business, file the paperwork and help your business adapt and follow FAA guidelines to ensure success.

Call Our FAA Lawyers Today!

Legal counsel is always an asset in assisting with completing FAA certification, routine compliance, and addressing any regulatory issues that might lead to litigation in aviation. For example, many clients rely on our legal counsel to help with part 135 FAA certification, as a Certificate of Compliance can be complex. Not all operators may be required to comply with regulatory requirements for manuals, training programs, and management positions.

We can offer support and industry guidance related to any certification. Our services extend to the process, from follow-through to working through unique considerations and navigating any obstacles that might hinder your business goals.

Aero Law Center is also instrumental in keeping operators in line with Federal Aviation Regulations, acting as a liaison between companies and the FAA, assisting in inspections and maintenance, and mediating important, urgent matters to your business. Quality and speed-to-market are how we add value.

We make tedious tasks less painful while maintaining superior operational standards and a strategic and careful approach.

Schedule a consultation to see how we can help your business succeed: 954-869-8950.