Aging airplane inspections and records reviews for multiengine airplanes certificated with nine or fewer passenger seats

This regulation requires Part 135 operators conducting scheduled operations with multiengine airplanes (9 or fewer passenger seats) to undergo periodic FAA inspections and records reviews focused on aging aircraft. Alaska intrastate operations are exempt.

The timing depends on the airplane's age as of December 8, 2003:

• Aircraft over 24 years old: inspection due by December 2007, then every 7 years
• Aircraft 14-24 years old: inspection due by December 2008, then every 7 years
• Aircraft under 14 years old: inspection due 5 years after entering their 15th year of service, then every 7 years

During these reviews, operators must demonstrate that age-sensitive parts and components have been properly maintained. The operator must provide comprehensive records including total service time, life-limited parts status, airworthiness directive compliance, and major repairs or alterations. Operators must notify the FAA at least 60 days before making the airplane available for inspection.

*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.*