subject: Special Airworthiness Certification [print this page] The FAA special airworthiness certificate is an authorization issued for an aircraft to operate under certain conditions in United States airspace. Categories include one or more of the following: primary, restricted, multiple, limited, experimental, light sport, provisional, or special flight permit. The certificate used for Special Airworthiness Certification is FAA Form 8130-7. A separate form, FAA Form 8130-6, is used when making an application for a new special airworthiness certificate or for making an amendment to an existing special airworthiness certificate. Changes to the operating limitations may be necessary for amended certificates. Depending on the type of special airworthiness certification, a program letter may also be required. The regulatory requirements for this particular type of certification can be found in FAR Part 21, Subpart H and Subpart L. Special Airworthiness Certification Procedures In order to receive certification, the following must be applied to all categories: 1) The aircraft must be registered in accordance with FAR Part 47. 2) The applicant must complete and submit FAA Form 8130-6. 3) The applicant must submit any other documentation specified and required. 4) The aircraft in question must be properly marked in accordance with FAR Part 45. 5) If required, the aircraft must be flight tested prior to applying for certification. 6) Aircraft maintenance and inspection records must be complete and in order. 7) Documentation should include an equipment list and weight and balance report. 8) Any and all Airworthiness Directives must be complied with, fully documented, and presented. 9) Aircraft manuals should be up to date and available for inspection upon request. 10) The aircraft for certification must be available for inspection by the FAA or FAA Designee.
