Special Conditions
Section 04: Certification Process Mechanics
Definition
Additional airworthiness requirements prescribed by the certifying authority when the existing regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for a particular design feature, technology, or operational use that is novel or unusual. Special conditions have the same legal force as the regulations themselves and become part of the certification basis for the specific project. They are used when the existing code was not written to address the specific design characteristic or technology being proposed.
Where This Shows Up
Special conditions are commonly issued for novel technologies such as fly-by-wire systems, composite primary structures, new engine architectures, lithium-ion batteries, and autonomous systems. The FAA publishes special conditions as regulatory actions in the Federal Register with public comment periods. EASA issues special conditions through the CRI process.
Primary Sources
Across Jurisdictions
14 CFR § 21.16
FAA special conditions are published in the Federal Register for public comment before finalization. They apply only to the specific TC/STC for which they are issued.
Part 21, 21.A.16B
EASA special conditions are issued through the CRI process and documented in the project-specific certification programme.
Related Terms
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