Your Guide to FAA Form 8130-3: What It Is and Why It Matters

In the world of aviation, safety and precision are paramount. Every component on an aircraft, from the engine to a single screw, must meet rigorous standards to ensure airworthiness. At the heart of this system is a crucial document that you will encounter frequently: FAA Form 8130-3, the Authorized Release Certificate.

But what exactly is this form, and why is it so important for every pilot, mechanic, and aircraft owner? Let’s demystify this essential certification and explain why it’s the gold standard for aircraft parts.

What Is FAA Form 8130-3?

Simply put, FAA Form 8130-3 is a two-sided document issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that certifies the airworthiness of an aircraft part. It acts as a passport for the component, guaranteeing that it has been inspected, repaired, or manufactured in compliance with FAA regulations.

The form can be used for several purposes, including:

• Export: When an aircraft part is being shipped from the U.S. to another country.
• Approval for Return to Service: After a part has been repaired, overhauled, or modified, this form certifies that it is once again in a condition for safe operation.
• New Part Release: For newly manufactured parts, it serves as the official document certifying that the item conforms to its approved design.

In essence, if a part comes with a valid 8130-3 tag, you have a documented assurance that it is safe, traceable, and ready to be installed on your aircraft.

What’s on the Form? Key Sections to Look For

Understanding the key fields on an FAA Form 8130-3 is essential for verifying a part’s history and legality. While the form has many sections, here are the most important ones to pay attention to:

• Block 12: Item Description: This is a clear description of the part, including its part number and serial number. This must match the part exactly.
• Block 13: Status/Work: This block contains the “meat” of the certificate. It specifies the work that was performed on the part. For example, it might say “Overhauled,” “Repaired,” or “Inspected.”
• Block 14: Certification/Release Statement: This is where the authorized person signs off. It contains a critical statement certifying that the work was performed in accordance with FAA regulations and the part is approved for return to service.
• Block 18: Authorized Signature: This is the signature of the FAA-approved individual or company releasing the part. Their certificate number (e.g., Repair Station Certificate) is also included here, providing a clear chain of custody.

Why is the 8130-3 Form So Crucial?

For a pilot or mechanic, the 8130-3 form is more than just paperwork; it’s a vital safety and legal document. Here’s why it’s so important:

• Traceability and Accountability: The form creates an official paper trail, allowing you to trace the part back to its origin. This ensures accountability and helps prevent the use of unapproved or counterfeit components. Without an 8130-3, it’s impossible to verify a part’s history or airworthiness.
• Legal Compliance: For both general and commercial aviation, having a certified part with an 8130-3 is a legal requirement. Installing a part without this certification could put your aircraft out of compliance and, more importantly, compromise safety.
• Safety Assurance: When you see an 8130-3, you can be confident that the part has passed a stringent quality control process. Whether it was a new part from a manufacturer or an overhauled component from a repair station, the certificate is a guarantee that it is safe for flight.

The Bottom Line: Your Peace of Mind

At Aviation Parts Hub, we understand that your peace of mind is priceless. That’s why our commitment to providing only certified, traceable parts is our highest priority. Every part listed on our site is sourced from a reputable supplier, and where applicable, comes with the necessary FAA 8130-3 certification. We ensure you have the proper documentation to verify your part’s history and airworthiness, so you can fly with confidence.

When you’re searching for your next part, remember to always look for this little piece of paper. It’s the ultimate proof of quality and the foundation of a safe, successful flight.