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RAINING
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ANUAL
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ANCAIR
IV/IVP
14 CFR 39 Airworthiness Directives:
Must I comply with AD’s issued against components on my experimental aircraft?
Yes, there is no provision in 14 CFR 39 that exempts experimental aircraft. AD’s
are issued for the purpose of safety and AD’s that apply to components on your
airplane must meet the requirements of the AD. Although the FAA has never
issued an AD against experimental aircraft it does routinely have AD’s that
pertain to engines, propellers, and other aircraft components. Kit builders issue
service bulletins and Lancair has a long list of service bulletins that should
frequently checked to ensure compliance.
PHASE I FLIGHT TESTING.
a. Flight Tests.
Section 91.319(b) requires you to show your aircraft is
controllable at all its normal speeds during all the maneuvers you might expect to
execute. You must also show it has no hazardous operating characteristics or
design features.
b. Number of Flight Test Hours.
The number of hours depends on your
aircraft’s characteristics. See the following table for specific requirements. The
FAA inspector may decide you need additional hours of flight testing beyond
those shown in the table to comply with § 91.319(b).
Aircraft Characteristics Required Flight Testing
Type-certificated engine/propeller combination 25 hours
Non-type-certificated engine/propeller combination 40 hours
e. Restrictions.
(1) Carrying Passengers. You may not carry passengers while you are
restricted to the flight test area or during any portion of your Phase I flight
test program.
We suggest you use a tape or video recorder for recording
readings and other similar tasks. If you need an additional crewmember for a
particular flight test, specify that in your application program letter for the
airworthiness certificate. We will list this need in your operating limitations.
(2) Flight Instruction. You may not receive flight instruction during your
flight test.
(3) Operating Limitations.
When we issue an unlimited duration special
airworthiness certificate, the operating limitations may be prescribed under the
guidelines in Order 8130.2. The purpose of the operating limitations is for you to
show and maintain compliance with § 91.319. The operating limitations include a
requirement for you to endorse the aircraft maintenance record (logbook) with a
statement certifying the aircraft has been shown to comply with that section. The
limitations may vary for some aircraft, and we may issue additional limitations in
unusual conditions in the interest of safety. We will review the limitations with you
to make sure you thoroughly understand each one.
14. CONTINUING TO OPERATE YOUR AMATEUR-BUILT AIRCRAFT.
a.
After you complete all required flight tests, hours, and maneuvers, the aircraft
is considered safe for continued flight. To continue operating your aircraft, you
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2007
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