Standard airworthiness certificate

A standard airworthiness certificate is the Federal Aviation Administration authorization to operate an aircraft in United States airspace in one or more categories.

• Normal
• Utility
• Acrobatic
• Commuter
• Transport
• Manned free balloons
• Special classes

Federal Aviation Regulations require that a valid Airworthiness Certificate be present on any and all U.S.-registered aircraft.

A standard airworthiness certificate remains valid as long as the aircraft meets its approved type design, is in a condition for safe operation and maintenance, and preventive maintenance and alterations are performed in accordance with 14 CFR parts 21, 43, and 91.

An existing standard airworthiness certificate remains with the aircraft with changes of ownership. A new owner must first register the aircraft, the aircraft must conform to its approved type design, and be in a condition for safe operation.

The three main types of Airworthiness Certificates are Standard, Special, and Multiple. The type of Airworthiness Certificate issued depends upon the type of aircraft and any special operating conditions (i.e., acrobatic, amateur-built, ex-military, etc.).