Acceptable Means of Compliance
AMC/MOCSection 02: Regulatory Vocabulary
Definition
A method, process, or technical approach that the certifying authority has determined to be adequate for demonstrating compliance with a specific airworthiness requirement. Each regulation in the certification basis requires one or more means of compliance (MOC). Acceptable means may be codified in guidance material (FAA ACs, EASA AMC) or may be proposed by the applicant and agreed by the authority during the certification project. The selection and agreement of means of compliance is a foundational step in the certification process.
Where This Shows Up
The term 'AMC' is used by EASA for its formal guidance documents titled Acceptable Means of Compliance. The broader concept of 'means of compliance' (MOC) or 'method of compliance' applies across all jurisdictions. FAA ACs describe acceptable means of compliance but are not themselves titled 'AMC.'
Primary Sources
EASA legal basis for AMC: compliance with AMC creates a presumption of compliance with the Implementing Rule.
FAA guidance on agreeing means of compliance during type certification.
Across Jurisdictions
The FAA uses Advisory Circulars (ACs) as pre-accepted means of compliance. Applicants may also propose alternative methods.
EASA publishes formal AMC documents. Compliance with an AMC creates a presumption of compliance with the underlying Implementing Rule.
TCCA uses Advisory Circulars and the Airworthiness Manual as sources of acceptable means of compliance.
Related Terms
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