FAA Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA)Airframe InspectionMedium
A technician reviewing an aircraft's maintenance manual finds a mandatory component replacement time listed in the Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS). The aircraft owner asks if the operator can extend this replacement interval based on their own fleet experience data. What must the technician tell the owner?
- AThe interval may be extended once by an IA using judgment during an annual inspection
- BThe interval only applies to aircraft operated under Part 135, not Part 91
- CThe interval is mandatory and can only be changed through FAA approval of a revision to the ALS
- DThe interval can be extended by the owner if documented in the aircraft records
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The interval is mandatory and can only be changed through FAA approval of a revision to the ALS
Under 14 CFR 43.16, operators must comply with the airworthiness limitations section of the manufacturer's maintenance manual; these limits are FAA-approved and cannot be changed except through an FAA-approved revision to the type certificate data or ALS. No individual mechanic, IA, or owner has authority to unilaterally extend these limits.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. An IA's judgment cannot override an FAA-mandated airworthiness limitation.
- B. ALS limits apply regardless of the operating rule (Part 91, 135, 121).
- D. Owners have no authority to change FAA-approved life limits regardless of documentation.
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Compliance
Per 14 CFR 43.16, operators must comply with mandatory replacement times, inspection intervals, and procedures set forth in the ALS of the FAA-approved maintenance manual; these are treated as airworthiness directives.
- Governed by 14 CFR 43.16
- Applies to all operators regardless of operating rule
- Can only be changed via an FAA-approved revision
Memory trick: ALS = Absolutely, Legally Set (no local edits)