Which action can invalidate a Certificate of Airworthiness?

A Certificate of Airworthiness is a document that signifies an aircraft is in a condition for safe operation and conforms to the standards set by the aviation authority. One of the critical responsibilities of aircraft ownership and operation involves adhering to regulations and directives, including Airworthiness Directives (ADs).

The essence of Airworthiness Directives is that they address safety issues that are identified after an aircraft design has been approved. If a registered owner fails to comply with ADs, this can lead to unsafe conditions or issues that directly affect the operational safety of the aircraft. In such cases, the aircraft might not meet the necessary safety standards, thus invalidating the Certificate of Airworthiness.

Completing an inspection, flying under a new owner, and performing scheduled maintenance are activities that generally contribute to maintaining an aircraft’s airworthiness rather than detracting from it. Inspections are meant to assess and ensure safety; changes in ownership, as long as the aircraft is maintained properly, don’t inherently invalidate its airworthiness; and maintenance is a critical aspect of keeping the aircraft operable and in good condition.