Chapter 15, FAA Questions (Oral)

What publication should a mechanic consult to determine if a repair is considered major or minor?

14 CFR (FAR), Part 43, Appendix A. (Page Reference: JSGT 14-4)

Where in the FARs will you find the certification requirements for mechanics?

FAR Part 65. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-2)

What are the ratings issued under a mechanic’s certificate?

Airframe and Powerplant. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-2)

What types of work may a certificated mechanic perform?

A mechanic may perform or supervise maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alterations. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

Is a certificated airframe mechanic allowed to perform maintenance on engines?

Not unless they are supervised by a certificated powerplant mechanic. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What are the limitations to a mechanic’s privileges with regard to propellers?

A mechanic may not perform or supervise major repairs to, or major alterations of, propellers. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

Is a mechanic allowed to repair or alter an aircraft instrument?

No. Mechanics may not perform any repairs or alterations on instruments. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What are the requirements for recent experience in order to exercise the privileges of your mechanic’s certificate or rating?

You must have worked as a mechanic or technically supervised other mechanics for at least 6 months out of the past 24 months. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What authority does a mechanic have regarding approval for return to service?

A mechanic may approve an aircraft, airframe, engine, propeller, or appliance for return to service in accordance with the provisions of FAR Part 65. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What are the privileges of an A & P mechanic regarding inspections?

A mechanic may perform and approve for return to service an airframe or engine following a 100-hour inspection. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What is the duration of a mechanic’s certificate?

The certificate is valid until surrendered, suspended or revoked. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What are the privileges and limitations of an A & P mechanic regarding major repairs and alterations to airframes and engines, and their approval for return to service?

A & P mechanics may perform major repairs and alterations but may not approve them for return to service unless they hold an Inspection Authorization. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

In addition to performing maintenance, what other privileges are granted to a powerplant mechanic?

A powerplant mechanic may perform a 100-hour inspection on an engine and approve the engine for return to service. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

When may a mechanic perform an annual inspection and return the aircraft to service?

When the mechanic holds an Inspection Authorization. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

May a mechanic supervise an inspection (or a portion of an inspection) and then approve the aircraft for return to service?

No. The mechanic approving the aircraft for return to service must actually perform the inspection. (Page Reference: JSGT 15-3)

What is the duration of a temporary airman’s certificate?

120 days. (Page Reference: FAR part 65)

If a mechanic’s certificate is revoked, how long must he/she wait before applying for a new certificate?

One year unless the revocation order states otherwise. (Page Reference: FAR part 65)

What should a mechanic do if his or her temporary certificate is about to expire?

Contact a local FAA office and seek assistance. (Page Reference: FAR part 65)

Is a person with a private pilot’s certificate allowed to perform maintenance and, if so, what are his/her limitations?

A pilot may perform preventive maintenance in accordance with FAR Part 43.3, 43.7 and Appendix A on an airplane owned by the pilot. He or she can also approve the aircraft for return to service following that maintenance. (Page Reference: FAR part 43)

What are your requirements as an aircraft mechanic if you have a change of address?

You must notify the FAA in writing within 30 days of any change to your permanent address. (Page Reference: FAR part 65)