FAA Order 8130.2M Builder and DAR-T Impact

The recent release of FAA Order 8130.2M updates the guidelines for aircraft airworthiness certification as a major component of implementing the MOSAIC rule. While there are some significant improvements for homebuilders, such as no longer being automatically restricted to a specific area during Phase I flight testing in their operating limitations, the order also changes who oversees original airworthiness certification.

FAA Certificate Management Sections (CMS), formerly known as MIDOs, now have primary oversight of all original airworthiness applications. FSDO-supervised designated airworthiness representatives (DAR-Ts) can still issue original certificates, but CMS gets the first opportunity to inspect an aircraft or delegate the inspection, and must coordinate with a FSDO before transferring the delegation to a DAR-T. Homebuilders seeking an original airworthiness certificate should start by contacting their CMS. 

EAA has received member feedback on how this change affects their ability to receive or issue an airworthiness certificate in a timely manner. In addition to concerns about delays, this new policy has been a significant change in many parts of the EAA community where the prominent local DAR is a DAR-T who must now gain a delegation from a CMS. If you are a builder or DAR that has been impacted by the new order, please email govt@eaa.org. Order 8130.2 is one of the most important FAA documents for homebuilders to know and understand and is frequently updated. EAA will continue to work with the FAA to ensure that the needs of homebuilders and general aviation operators are met in this and all future revisions.