Tuesday, 19 May 2015

Compass Swing Requirements

Q: What are the requirements for compass swing?

A: FAR 23/25/27/29

  1. The compass calibration requirements for small aircraft (less than 12,500 lbs maximum take-off weight) can be found in FAR’s 23.1327 and 23.1547.
  2. The compass calibration requirements for large aircraft (more than 12,500 lbs maximum take-off weight) can be found in FAR’s 25.1327 and 25.1547.
  3. They are both similar in wording with the exception that a large aircraft cannot have more than 10 degrees variation
  4. FAR’s 27 and 29 have the same requirements for small and large helicopters.

Q: What occasions require compass swing?

A: Refer to AC 43.13-1B 

C of A Issuance Charge

Q: What is the basis for C of A issuance charge in term of MTOW, whether to use figure from TCDS or AFM?

A: Charge is based on certification weight, means MTOW as defined in TCDS, as MTOW from AFM might be varies depending on operator's configuration.

CMR Signatory

Q: Does a CMR signatory require DCA approval?

  • CAR 1996 Reg. 28(3) specifies LAE/ authorised/ approved person to issue CMR.
  • CAR 1996 Reg. 31(2) specifies LAE is authorised to issue CMR subject to such conditions as may be specified in the license
  • As per AN12 Para 3.4.2, the signatory for the CMR shall be:
    • (a) for aircraft maintained to the requirements of BCAR Chapter A8-13, an engineer approved for the purpose by the DCA. Note: BCAR Chapter A8-13 is equivalent to Part 145.
    • (b) for all other aircraft an engineer type licensed in at least two categories (excluding "X" Compasses) appropriate to the aircraft type. Note: Under Part 66 licensing system, two categories means any combinations of Cat. A & B or B1 & B2.
A: YES if aircraft is maintained by Part 145. NO if aircraft is maintained by non-Part 145.