Change Impact Assessment
CIASection 04: Certification Process Mechanics
Definition
The systematic evaluation performed by the applicant to determine the scope and extent of a proposed design change's impact on the type design, the certification basis, and the existing compliance showing. A change impact assessment identifies which areas of the type design are directly changed, which areas are affected by the change (even if not directly modified), which regulatory requirements apply to the changed and affected areas, and whether the existing compliance data remains valid or must be updated. The CIA is the starting point for defining the scope of an STC or TC amendment project.
Where This Shows Up
A thorough change impact assessment is critical for properly scoping a modification project. Underestimating the impact can result in unapproved design changes or inadequate compliance demonstration. Overestimating the impact leads to unnecessary work and cost. The assessment must consider direct effects, indirect effects, and potential interactions between the changed area and the rest of the type design.
Primary Sources
FAA rule requiring the classification of design changes, which necessitates an impact assessment.
FAA rule determining which regulations apply to changed and affected areas.
Related Terms
Need help navigating certification?
Understanding the terminology is the first step. If you need expert guidance on DO-178C, DO-254, ARP4754B, or any aspect of FAA, EASA, or TCCA certification, our team is here to help.