Do amateur-built aircraft have a Certificate of Airworthiness?

Amateur-built aircraft do not receive a traditional Certificate of Airworthiness like production aircraft. Instead, they are issued a special flight permit, often referred to as a "Phase I operating limitations" or "experimental certificate." This special permit allows the aircraft to be flown for the purpose of testing its airworthiness and ensuring compliance with the built specifications.

The permit typically comes with specific operational limitations to ensure safety during the initial phases of flight. Once testing is completed and the aircraft is determined to be airworthy, the owner can apply for a more permanent status, but they still do not receive a standard Certificate of Airworthiness. The unique status of amateur-built aircraft is a reflection of their non-commercial nature, as they are built by individuals rather than commercial manufacturers, which is why they follow a different regulatory path.

Other options suggested a status that does not align with the regulations governing amateur-built aircraft, thereby reflecting a misunderstanding of the experimental certificate system used for such aircraft.