In response to recent mandates by Congress, the FAA is changing its rules to require written permission from a supplemental type certificate (STC) holder to use its data for follow-on installations that alter the affected aircraft, engine or propeller. The changes became effective Oct. 2, 2006. Although written in a manner requiring the STC holder to report to the FAA when it grants permission for installation of the STC, the new FAR, Section 21.120, has the effect of continuing the FAA’s recently adopted responsibility of protecting the intellectual property of STC holders.
The FAA also added a new Section 91.403(d), which requires a person altering an aircraft based on an STC to only do so if he or she holds the STC or has written permission from its holder. According to the Aircraft Electronics Association, the two new rules leave some questions unanswered, including whether an avionics installation, typically performed pursuant to an STC but by using the manufacturer’s data, is considered “use of the STC data” as specified in the law.
FAA Tightens STC Rules
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA implemented new rules (FAR Sections 21.120 and 91.403(d)) effective October 2, 2006, requiring written permission from Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) holders for follow-on alterations to aircraft, engines, or propellers.
- These changes were mandated by Congress and aim to protect the intellectual property rights of STC holders.
- Industry groups have questioned whether standard avionics installations, often done using manufacturer's data but under an STC, will be considered "use of the STC data" under the new regulations.
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