FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Regulations, Records and Human FactorsMedium
A replacement bracket for a type-certificated aircraft is produced by a manufacturer under a Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA). What gives this part legal authority for installation on the aircraft?
- AA statement from the mechanic that the part looks equivalent to the original
- BThe PMA holder's FAA-approved design and production approval under 14 CFR part 21
- CThe part's inclusion in the aircraft's original type certificate data sheet
- DThe part is accompanied by an FAA Form 8130-3 issued by the aircraft owner
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The PMA holder's FAA-approved design and production approval under 14 CFR part 21
A Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA), granted under 14 CFR part 21, Subpart K, is an FAA design and production approval that allows a manufacturer to produce replacement or modification parts for installation on a type-certificated product, giving those parts legal standing without a separate approval for each installation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A mechanic's personal judgment cannot substitute for a formal FAA approval.
- C. PMA parts do not need to appear on the original type certificate data sheet.
- D. Form 8130-3 is issued by an authorized FAA representative/manufacturer, not the aircraft owner, and is not the basis of PMA authority.
Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA)
An FAA approval under 14 CFR part 21, Subpart K, authorizing a manufacturer to produce replacement or modification parts for installation on type-certificated products.
- Combines design and production approval in one authorization
- Distinct from TSO, which authorizes standardized appliances/materials
- PMA parts are legally installable without a separate field approval
Memory trick: 'PMA = Pre-approved Manufacturing Authority.'