For a new or derivative aircraft prototype, what certificate is issued when FAA airworthiness standards are fully demonstrated?

For a new or derivative aircraft prototype, what certificate is issued when FAA airworthiness standards are fully demonstrated?

• A. Production Certificate
• B. Type Certificate
• C. Export Certificate
• D. Certificate of Airworthiness

Answer: (D)

When the FAA has verified that the aircraft design meets the applicable airworthiness standards and the actual aircraft has been built and inspected to conform to that approved design, the certificate issued for the aircraft to operate is the Certificate of Airworthiness. This document confirms that the specific aircraft is airworthy and eligible to fly under the FAA’s rules. Production Certificate applies to the manufacturer’s ability to produce the aircraft, Type Certificate is about approval of the design itself, and Export Certificate is for validating eligibility for import into another country. The Certificate of Airworthiness is the certification that ties the FAA-approved design to the actual aircraft and allows it to operate.

When the FAA has verified that the aircraft design meets the applicable airworthiness standards and the actual aircraft has been built and inspected to conform to that approved design, the certificate issued for the aircraft to operate is the Certificate of Airworthiness. This document confirms that the specific aircraft is airworthy and eligible to fly under the FAA’s rules.

Production Certificate applies to the manufacturer’s ability to produce the aircraft, Type Certificate is about approval of the design itself, and Export Certificate is for validating eligibility for import into another country. The Certificate of Airworthiness is the certification that ties the FAA-approved design to the actual aircraft and allows it to operate.