14 CFR Part 21 — Certification Procedures for Products and Articles
Section 01: Organizations & Authorities
Definition
The FAA regulation that prescribes procedural requirements for the issuance of type certificates, production approvals, airworthiness certificates, and related approvals for aircraft, aircraft engines, propellers, and articles. Part 21 defines who may apply for certification, what must be shown, and how approvals are issued, amended, and maintained. It is the procedural backbone of the FAA certification system.
Where This Shows Up
Part 21 does not contain airworthiness standards themselves; instead, it references the appropriate airworthiness standard (e.g., Part 25 for transport category airplanes) and defines the process for demonstrating compliance.
Primary Sources
FAA regulation governing procedures for type certification, production approvals, and airworthiness certificates.
Across Jurisdictions
Part 21
EASA's Part 21 serves a similar function to FAA 14 CFR Part 21 but with European procedural differences, including the DOA/POA approval system.
EASA Part 21 uses Design Organisation Approval (DOA) and Production Organisation Approval (POA) as its primary approval mechanisms, whereas the FAA uses Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) and Production Certificates.
Canadian Aviation Regulations Part V, CAR 521
TCCA's certification procedures are contained in CAR Part V and the Airworthiness Manual (AWM), with procedural requirements in CAR 521 (Type Certificate procedures).
Related Terms
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