FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) study guide
FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
Inspection Authorization, usually called IA, is an additional rating the FAA issues to an experienced airframe and powerplant mechanic. It widens what the holder may sign off: an IA can perform annual inspections, conduct and approve progressive inspections, and approve major repairs and major alterations for return to service. The FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) study guide has 8 sections and about 2,872 words.
01Regulations (Parts 1, 21, 39, 43, 45, 65, 91, 121, 135) and Airworthiness Directives
Nearly every scenario question reduces to two questions: which document authorizes this action, and to what standard must it be done? The answers start in Part 1.
371 words, about 2 min02Maintenance Records, Approvals for Return to Service, and Recordkeeping
No person may approve an aircraft or component for return to service until the work has been performed using the methods, techniques, and practices acceptable to the Administrator (Part 43), and the person who signs the record is the person who approves. Signing is an act of certification, not clerical work.
384 words, about 2 min03Annual and Progressive Inspections and Part 43 Appendix D
Section 91.409(a) forbids operation unless the aircraft has had an annual inspection within the preceding 12 calendar months. Because the rule is written in calendar months, an inspection performed any day in January 2025 satisfies the requirement through January 31, 2026.
378 words, about 2 min04Major Repairs, Major Alterations, Field Approvals, and Form 337
Part 1 defines major repair and major alteration as those not listed in the aircraft, engine, or propeller specifications that might appreciably affect weight, balance, structural strength, performance, powerplant operation, flight characteristics, or other airworthiness qualities, or that cannot be done by elementary operations or accepted practices. Part 43 Appendix A gives category examples (airframe, powerplant, propeller, appliance) and Appendix B describes how the work is recorded.
361 words, about 2 min05Type Certificate Data Sheets, Airworthiness Limitations, and Instructions for Continued Airworthiness
The type certificate data sheet is the FAA's summary of the approved design: eligible models and serial numbers, engine and propeller combinations, airspeed limitations, maximum weights, center of gravity range and datum, control surface travels, required equipment, and required placards. The approved flight manual or placards carry operating limitations.
344 words, about 2 min06Aircraft Structures and Systems Inspection
An inspection is only as good as the access and technique used. Visual inspection after cleaning and opening panels finds most discrepancies; tap testing, eddy current, ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant extend it.
327 words, about 2 min07Weight and Balance and Equipment Lists
The TCDS establishes maximum weights, the datum, and the forward and aft CG limits, often expressed in inches from the datum and sometimes in percent of mean aerodynamic chord. The aircraft weight and balance report establishes empty weight, empty weight CG, and installed equipment.
353 words, about 2 min08Inspection Authorization Privileges, Limitations, and Administrative Responsibilities
An inspection authorization is granted to a mechanic holding both airframe and powerplant ratings, actively engaged in aircraft maintenance for at least three years, with a fixed base of operations and the equipment, facilities, and inspection data needed to do the work. The authorization expires March 31 of odd-numbered years and is renewed on evidence of 16 hours of acceptable training within the preceding 24 months, or by retaking the test.
354 words, about 2 min