luftfartygscertifikat

Luftfartygscertifikat, or airworthiness certificate, is an official document issued by a national aviation authority that certifies an aircraft meets approved safety and design standards and is permitted to operate. It applies to civil aircraft and can cover new-builds, imported aircraft, or those modified from other configurations.

Issuance typically follows verification that the aircraft conforms to its approved type design and production standards. For new aircraft this involves type certification, production certification, and a final inspection before registration. For existing aircraft, the authority confirms continued compliance with maintenance and airworthiness records.

The certificate remains valid as long as the aircraft continues to satisfy applicable standards and is maintained according to an approved program. Significant alterations, damage, or omitted inspections can lead to suspension, revocation, or need for recertification to restore validity.

Types and scope vary by jurisdiction, but common categories include standard airworthiness certificates and special, restricted, or experimental certificates issued for aircraft with limited operations or non-standard designs. Some jurisdictions also recognize light-sport or other special classes.

In practice, airworthiness certificates are issued by the national authority and are recognized within international aviation frameworks governed by ICAO and regional rules where applicable. They are typically linked to the aircraft’s registration and the operator’s responsibilities for ongoing maintenance, inspections, and compliance with airworthiness directives.