FAA Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA)Airframe StructuresMedium
A technician is recovering a fabric-covered aircraft using a synthetic fabric covering process approved under a supplemental type certificate. Which practice is required to remain in compliance during this process?
- AApplying any FAA-approved dope system interchangeably between different STC processes
- BFollowing the specific manufacturer's process steps and approved materials exactly as documented
- CUsing cellulose nitrate dope regardless of the fabric manufacturer's instructions
- DSubstituting materials from a different manufacturer's process as long as strength is similar
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Following the specific manufacturer's process steps and approved materials exactly as documented
When recovering an aircraft under a fabric STC (such as Ceconite or Poly-Fiber), the technician must follow that specific manufacturer's approved process and materials exactly, since STC approval covers the complete process as a system, not individual components. Mixing materials or steps from different STC processes voids the approval.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Dope systems are approved as part of a specific process and are not interchangeable between different STCs.
- C. Cellulose nitrate dope may not be compatible with all synthetic fabric STC processes.
- D. Substituting materials from another process voids the STC approval even if strength seems similar.
Fabric Covering STC Process
An FAA-approved fabric covering process (e.g., Ceconite, Poly-Fiber, Stits) that must be followed in its entirety, using only the specified materials and procedures.
- STC approval covers the entire process, not individual materials
- Mixing processes/materials voids the approval
- Common systems include Ceconite, Poly-Fiber, and Stits
Memory trick: 'One STC, one recipe—no substitutions allowed.'