Aging Airplane Safety Rule

by Marc
(Seattle, WA)

What is the FAA Aging Airplane Safety Rule?

ANSWER: On February 2, 2005, the FAA published the Aging Airplane Safety Rule. The rule specifies mandatory aging airplane inspections for certain airplanes according to their years in service.

It also prohibits operation of these airplanes after specified deadlines unless the maintenance programs under which the airplanes are maintained include damage-tolerance-based inspections and procedures.

The FAA implemented this requirement to assess the damage tolerance of older airplane structures and to ensure the continuing airworthiness of aging airplanes operated in air transportation.

The rule requires airplane inspections and records reviews be conducted by FAA Inspectors or FAA Designees.

This rule currently applies to airplanes is operated by an airline under FAR Parts 121, 129, or 135 in scheduled passenger operations.

Compliance times:

  • If the airplane has passed its 24th year in service on December 8, 2003, the first inspection and records review was due 4 years from that date.

  • If the airplane has passed its 14th year in service on December 8, 2003, the first inspection and records review was due 5 years from that date.

  • If the airplane has not passed its 14th year in service on December 8, 2003, the first inspection and records review is due 5 years after the airplane’s 14th year in service.

  • Subsequent inspections and records reviews are due thereafter at 7-year intervals.

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