An Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC) is an official document issued to confirm that an aircraft meets all airworthiness requirements and is fit to fly safely.
It’s a key part of aviation compliance, especially within the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) framework.
This certificate proves that the aircraft continues to meet design and maintenance standards. It’s not just a one time approval, it’s a continuous process to verify that the plane remains in safe condition for operation.
Purpose of an Airworthiness Review Certificate
The main purpose of an ARC is to ensure continued airworthiness. It confirms that:
- The aircraft follows its approved maintenance schedule.
- No major defects are present that could affect safety.
- All required inspections, repairs, and modifications are properly documented.
Without a valid certificate, the aircraft cannot legally operate. That’s why aircraft owners, maintenance organizations, and operators place high importance on timely renewal.
How the Airworthiness Review Process Works
The review process is performed by an approved maintenance organization or an authorized airworthiness review staff. Here’s how it usually happens:
- Document Check: All aircraft records are inspected including maintenance logs, repair certificates, and previous airworthiness reports.
- Physical Inspection: The aircraft is examined for any visible damage or missing components.
- Compliance Verification: Engineers confirm that all modifications and repairs comply with regulatory standards.
- Issuance: If everything meets the criteria, an Airworthiness Review Certificate is issued (usually valid for 12 months).
You can find a related example of detailed review documentation in this Xeodis Review.io analysis that emphasizes how compliance verification adds trust and credibility in technical reviews.
Why the Certificate Matters
Having an Airworthiness Review Certificate ensures:
- Legal authorization to operate.
- Trust in the aircraft’s safety condition.
- Proof for insurance, leasing, or resale.
- Compliance with international aviation authorities.
It’s the foundation of aircraft safety assurance showing that every part, from structure to avionics, meets strict regulatory standards.
FAQs
Q: What is the validity of an Airworthiness Review Certificate?
A: An ARC is typically valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually to keep the aircraft operational.
Q: Who can issue an Airworthiness Review Certificate?
A: Only authorized maintenance organizations or approved airworthiness staff can issue or extend the certificate.
Q: Can an aircraft fly without a valid ARC?
A: No. Without a valid certificate, the aircraft cannot legally operate under EASA regulations.
Q: Is ARC the same as a Certificate of Airworthiness?
A: Not exactly. The Certificate of Airworthiness confirms the aircraft type is approved; the ARC ensures it continues to meet those standards over time.
Final Thoughts
The Airworthiness Review Certificate plays a crucial role in maintaining aviation safety and operational integrity.
It guarantees that every aircraft in service remains compliant, reliable, and ready to fly safely within global aviation standards.