How Much Maintenance Can I Perform on My Airplane?

Certificated, experimental, and homebuilt aircraft each have their own sets of rules and regulations for maintenance. Here’s what you need to know.

Richard Scarbrough

Thursday, July 07, 2022 at 08:22 AM ET

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When it comes to homebuilt aircraft, the field is as varied as any other aviation sector. [Photo: Richard Scarbrough]

Key Takeaways:

Maintenance for certificated aircraft is strictly governed by 14 CFR Part 43, requiring A&P mechanics for most work and an Inspection Authorization (IA) for annual inspections, though pilots can perform specific preventive tasks.
Owners of experimental amateur-built aircraft enjoy greater maintenance flexibility, but if the aircraft was *purchased* (not built by the current owner), an A&P mechanic is still required to sign off its annual "condition inspection" for return to service.
Owners who *built* their experimental aircraft, adhering to the "51-percent rule," can obtain a Repairman Certificate, allowing them to perform and sign off their own aircraft's condition inspections and return it to service.

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Have you ever dreamed of owning an airplane? Those who achieve that dream now enjoy the freedom of the skies. When I had my engine shop, one of my employees flew a Mooney to work. I remember taking it on a sales call to Epps Aviation at KPDK and soaring over the gridlock traffic on the 75/85 connector. How about building one in your garage? What are you allowed to work on and sign off when it’s finished? Do you know the 51-percent rule?

Let’s tackle the ins and outs of certificated, experimental, and homebuilt aircraft maintenance. Many aircraft lined up on the ramp operate under different rules, with their own set of regulations and nuances. Don’t get caught on the wrong side of the law when the Feds come calling.