Airworthiness and Requirements - Type Certificates

11 November 2026, Andreas Strohmayer

type certificate and restricted type-certificates shall include

• type design
• operating limitations
• instructions for continued airworthiness
• the type-certificate data sheet for airworthiness and emissions

the type certificate is valid for an unlimited duration (contrary to tc application, which is valid for three years)

standard changes to a tc are

• in relation to
  • aeroplanes of 5700 kg MTOM or less
  • rotorcraft of 3175 kg MTOM or less
  • ...
• that follow design data included in certigication specifications issued by the agency, containinge acceptable methods for identifying and carrying out standard changes
• that are not in conflict with tc holder data

changes are classified as major and minor, depending on its effects on mass, balance, reliability, environmental characteristics or operational suitability

priviliges of a design organisation

• classify changes to a type certificate or a supplemental type certificate and repair designs as major and minor
• approve minor changes to type certificates and minor repair designs
• declare compliance of a minor change or minor repair
• approve certain major repair designs
• approve for certain aircraft the flight conditions under which a permit to fly can be issued
• issue a permit to fly
• approve certain major changes
• issue certain supplemental type certificates

When is the permit to fly issued?
If it has not been shown to meet applicable airworthiness requirements but are capable of safe flight under defined conditions and fot the following purposes:

• development
• showing compliance with regulations or certification specifications
• design organisations or production organisations crew training
• ...