If an AD requires action and the operator completes it, what documentation should IA ensure?

If an AD requires action and the operator completes it, what documentation should IA ensure?

• A. Document completion and maintain records of compliance.
• B. Delete the compliance record after 30 days.
• C. Only notify FAA.
• D. Authorize release without documentation.

Answer: (A)

When an AD requires action and the operator completes it, the IA must ensure there is a proper documentation trail showing that the AD was complied with. This is essential because ADs mandate actions to address unsafe conditions, and proof of compliance becomes part of the aircraft’s permanent maintenance history. The IA verifies that the maintenance records reflect the AD action—not just that it happened, but how it was done, when, and by whom. This typically includes the AD number and revision, the date of compliance, the method used (including any parts replaced or adjustments made), and the signature and certificate information of the mechanic who performed or supervised the work. Maintaining this record ensures traceability and demonstrates the aircraft remains airworthy under regulatory requirements, even as the aircraft moves through different owners or operators. Deleting records, purging them after a set period, or relying on notifying FAA alone does not satisfy the requirement for documented compliance in the aircraft’s maintenance history. Likewise, releasing the aircraft without proper documentation would be improper and could leave the aircraft non-airworthy in the eyes of the regulations. So, the correct action is to document completion and maintain records of compliance.

When an AD requires action and the operator completes it, the IA must ensure there is a proper documentation trail showing that the AD was complied with. This is essential because ADs mandate actions to address unsafe conditions, and proof of compliance becomes part of the aircraft’s permanent maintenance history.

The IA verifies that the maintenance records reflect the AD action—not just that it happened, but how it was done, when, and by whom. This typically includes the AD number and revision, the date of compliance, the method used (including any parts replaced or adjustments made), and the signature and certificate information of the mechanic who performed or supervised the work. Maintaining this record ensures traceability and demonstrates the aircraft remains airworthy under regulatory requirements, even as the aircraft moves through different owners or operators.

Deleting records, purging them after a set period, or relying on notifying FAA alone does not satisfy the requirement for documented compliance in the aircraft’s maintenance history. Likewise, releasing the aircraft without proper documentation would be improper and could leave the aircraft non-airworthy in the eyes of the regulations.

So, the correct action is to document completion and maintain records of compliance.