What is an Airworthiness Directive (AD) and who must comply with it?

What is an Airworthiness Directive (AD) and who must comply with it?

• A. A non-regulatory directive
• B. A legally enforceable FAA directive addressing an unsafe condition
• C. A manufacturer recommendation
• D. A voluntary safety tip

Answer: (B)

An Airworthiness Directive is a legally enforceable order from the FAA that requires action to fix an unsafe condition found in a specific aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance. It tells you exactly what must be done—such as an inspection, modification, replacement, or other repair—and sets a timeframe for when that work must be completed. The obligation falls on the owner or operator of the affected product to comply with the directive. If someone else (like a maintenance shop) performs the required work, they must carry it out in accordance with the AD.

An Airworthiness Directive is a legally enforceable order from the FAA that requires action to fix an unsafe condition found in a specific aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance. It tells you exactly what must be done—such as an inspection, modification, replacement, or other repair—and sets a timeframe for when that work must be completed. The obligation falls on the owner or operator of the affected product to comply with the directive. If someone else (like a maintenance shop) performs the required work, they must carry it out in accordance with the AD.