Service difficulty reports

This regulation requires Part 121 air carriers to report specific mechanical failures, malfunctions, and defects to the FAA. The rule lists 17 specific items that must be reported, including in-flight fires, engine shutdowns, false fire warnings, structural damage requiring major repair, brake system failures, and problems with emergency evacuation equipment. "During flight" means from the moment the aircraft leaves the ground until touchdown.

Reports must cover each 24-hour period (starting at 0900 local time) and be submitted to the FAA in Oklahoma City within 96 hours. Carriers must also report any other failure they believe endangered or may endanger safe operations, even if not specifically listed.

The regulation specifies what information to include in reports (aircraft type, operator name, date, nature of problem, corrective action, etc.) and requires submitting additional information as it becomes available. Reports cannot be withheld even if incomplete information is available initially.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*