Instructions for Continued Airworthiness
ICASection 12: Continued Airworthiness & Maintenance
Definition
The set of documents provided by the type certificate holder that contains the information necessary for an operator to maintain an aircraft, engine, or appliance in an airworthy condition throughout its operational life. ICAs include the maintenance manual, overhaul manual, structural repair manual, illustrated parts catalogue, wiring diagram manual, and scheduled maintenance requirements, as well as airworthiness limitations that are regulatory-approved and mandatory.
Where This Shows Up
ICAs are a regulatory requirement for type certification. 14 CFR 21.50 and Part 25, Appendix H (for transport category aircraft) define ICA requirements. The Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) of the ICA is FAA-approved and contains mandatory replacement times, inspection intervals, and related limitations that cannot be changed without approval. The rest of the ICA, while required to be provided, may be revised by the TC holder without specific authority approval (though the authority must be notified). ICAs must be provided to every known operator and must be kept current throughout the life of the product.
Primary Sources
FAA regulatory requirements for the content and delivery of ICAs for type-certificated products.
TCCA requirement for ICAs as part of the type certification process.
Artifacts Produced
The primary maintenance reference containing task cards, procedures, and instructions for maintaining the aircraft.
Maintenance and overhaul instructions for individual LRUs and components, including acceptance test procedures.
FAA-approved mandatory section of the ICA containing life limits, inspection intervals, and related airworthiness limitations.
Related Terms
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