Who is responsible for confirming the durability of the materials in a Part 23 airplane?

The responsibility for confirming the durability of the materials used in a Part 23 airplane primarily falls on the applicant. The applicant, typically the manufacturer or entity seeking certification, must provide substantiation and evidence that the materials meet the necessary performance and safety standards as outlined by regulations. They must conduct thorough testing and analysis to ensure that materials will withstand the operating conditions the aircraft may encounter throughout its service life.

Compliance with safety and airworthiness standards is essential, and the applicant plays a crucial role in gathering the documentation and data required to satisfy regulatory authorities, including the FAA. They are expected to understand the specifications and to demonstrate that their materials are capable of withstanding the stresses and conditions of flight operations.

FAA inspectors and design engineers have their own roles in the process. Inspectors evaluate the presented documentation and may review compliance with regulations during inspections, while design engineers focus on creating designs that are safe and effective but rely on applicants to verify material choices. The aircraft operator’s responsibilities center more on the operation and maintenance of the aircraft after it has entered service, rather than the initial material durability assessments required for certification.