Which part of the Federal Aviation Regulations specifies the standards of performance for inspection authorization holders?

The correct answer is grounded in the specific content of 14 CFR Part 43, which establishes the performance standards for the maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, and alteration of aircraft. This section of the Federal Aviation Regulations contains the regulations governing the qualifications and responsibilities of personnel involved in these tasks, including those holding an Inspection Authorization (IA).

Specifically, Part 43 provides guidelines for the inspections that must be conducted to ensure that aircraft meet safety standards, and it delineates the authority and functions of IAs in conducting these inspections. By outlining the requirements for inspections and the qualifications necessary to perform them, Part 43 helps maintain aviation safety and airworthiness through regulated oversight.

In contrast, the other parts mentioned do not specifically address the standards for inspection authorization holders. For example, Part 61 covers certification of pilots and flight instructors, Part 91 sets forth general operating and flight rules for aircraft, and Part 135 pertains to operating requirements for commuter and on-demand operations. These regulations serve vital functions within the aerospace sector but do not contain the specific standards relevant to inspection authorizations.