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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 43.3

Persons authorized to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, and alterations

Read the official rule

In plain English

This rule lists who may perform maintenance: certificated mechanics, repair stations, and the manufacturer in some cases. Importantly, the holder of a pilot certificate may perform listed preventive maintenance on an aircraft they own or operate (not used in air-carrier/for-hire service).

Key points

  • Mechanics, repair stations and (limited) manufacturers perform maintenance.
  • Pilots may do preventive maintenance (Part 43 Appendix A list) on their own aircraft.
  • Work must be done properly and recorded.

Common pitfalls

  • A pilot doing more than the listed preventive-maintenance items.

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

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 8, 2026.