Technical Standard Order
TSOSection 03: Certification & Approval Types
Definition
A minimum performance standard for specified articles (materials, parts, processes, appliances, or components) issued by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart O. A TSO defines the minimum performance criteria that an article must meet, typically by referencing industry standards (such as RTCA DO- documents or SAE standards). A TSO Authorization (TSOA) is issued to a manufacturer who demonstrates that their article meets the applicable TSO standard, authorizing them to produce and mark the article as TSO-approved.
Where This Shows Up
A TSOA is not by itself sufficient for installation of the article on a specific aircraft; the installation must still be approved under the appropriate type design approval (TC, STC, or field approval). The TSO approval addresses the article's inherent performance; the installation approval addresses its integration into a specific aircraft type design.
Primary Sources
FAA procedures for the issuance of TSO authorizations.
Artifacts Produced
The formal authorization issued by the FAA to a manufacturer to produce articles that meet the applicable TSO standard.
Across Jurisdictions
14 CFR Part 21, Subpart O
The FAA issues TSO Authorizations under Part 21 Subpart O. The TSO index defines each TSO standard with its referenced technical standard.