Type Certificate
TCSection 03: Certification & Approval Types
Definition
A formal approval issued by the certifying authority that confirms a product's type design complies with the applicable airworthiness requirements. A TC is issued for aircraft, aircraft engines, and propellers upon successful completion of the type certification process, which involves demonstrating compliance with every applicable regulation in the certification basis through analysis, test, and inspection. The TC defines the approved type design, operating limitations, applicable regulations, and conditions and limitations.
Where This Shows Up
The TC is the foundational design approval in civil aviation. It represents the authority's determination that the type design is safe when operated within its defined limitations. The TC holder has continuing obligations including maintaining the type design data, providing Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, and addressing unsafe conditions throughout the operational life of the product.
Primary Sources
Artifacts Produced
The public document summarizing the key data and limitations of a type-certificated product, including design features, operating limitations, and applicable regulatory amendments.
EASA's equivalent document recording the approved type design details.
Across Jurisdictions
14 CFR Part 21, Subpart B
The FAA issues Type Certificates under 14 CFR Part 21 Subpart B. The TCDS is published on the FAA website.
Part 21, Subpart B (21.A.21)
EASA issues Type Certificates and publishes TCDS. For products designed outside the EU, EASA issues TCs through the validation process.
CAR 521
TCCA issues Type Certificates under CAR 521 and publishes Type Certificate Data Sheets.
Related Terms
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