Computer Testing Supplement for IA.indb - Aviation Supplies ...

TCDS BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Type Certifi cate Data Sheets and Specifi cations (TCDS) set forth essential factors and other conditions which are necessary
for U.S. airworthiness certifi cation. Aircraft, engines, and propellers which conform to a U.S. type certifi cate (TC) are
eligible for U.S. airworthiness certifi cation when found to be in a condition for safe operation and ownership requisites
are fulfi lled.
These are two kinds of certifi cation documents contained in the TCDS fi le:
(1) Type Certifi cate Data Sheets
(2) Specifi cations
“Type Certifi cate Data Sheets” were originated and fi rst published in January 1958. FAR 21.41 indicates they are part of
the type certifi cate. As such, a type certifi cate data sheet is evidence the product has been type certifi cated. Generally, type
certifi cate data sheets are compiled from details supplied by the type certifi cate holder; however, FAA may request and
incorporate additional details when conditions warrant.
“Specifi cations” were originated during implementation of the Air Commerce Act of 1926. Specifi cations are FAA
recordkeeping documents issued for both type certifi cated and non-type certifi cated products which have been found eligible
for U.S. airworthiness certifi cation. Although they are no longer issued, specifi cations remain in effect and will be further
amended. Specifi cations covering type certifi cated products may be converted to type certifi cate data sheets at the option of
the type certifi cate holder. However, to do so requires the type certifi cate holder to provide an equipment list. A specifi cation
is NOT part of a type certifi cate. Specifi cations are subdivided into fi ve major groups as follows:
(1) Type Certifi cated Aircraft, Engines and Propellers. Covering standard, restricted and limited types issued for
domestic, foreign, and military surplus products.
(2) Group II - Aircraft, Engine, and Propeller Approvals. Covering domestic, foreign, and military surplus products
constructed or modifi ed between October 1, 1927, and August 22, 1938, all of which have met minimum airworthiness
requirements without formal type certifi cation. Such products are eligible for standard airworthiness certifi cation as
though they are type certifi cated products.
(3) Group III - Aircraft, Engine and Propeller Approvals. Covering domestic products manufactured prior to October
1, 1927, and foreign products manufactured prior to June 20, 1931, and certain military surplus engines and propellers
all of which have met minimum airworthiness requirements of the Air Commerce Act of 1926 and implementing
Air Commerce Regulations without formal type certifi cation. Such products are eligible for standard airworthiness
certifi cation as though they are type certifi cated products.
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