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FAA approval of an alternative method of compliance

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 30 of 37 on Regulations, Maintenance Forms, Records, and Publications. ACS element AM.I.I.K11 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONAn operator wants to correct the unsafe condition addressed by an airworthiness directive using a technique the AD does not specify. According to FAA-H-8083-30B, what must occur before that alternative method may be used?

  1. AThe type certificate holder must issue a service bulletin
  2. BThe operator must document the method in the aircraft logbook
  3. CThe FAA must approve the alternative method
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. The FAA must approve the alternative method

  • A — incorrect A service bulletin from the manufacturer is not what authorizes an alternative method of compliance; the approval must come from the FAA.
  • B — incorrect A logbook entry records the work but does not by itself authorize deviating from the AD; FAA approval is required first.
  • C — correct The handbook states that different approaches or techniques not specified in an AD can be used to correct the unsafe condition only after FAA approval.

BACKGROUND

Under 14 CFR part 39, the FAA issues airworthiness directives (ADs) in response to unsafe conditions found in aircraft, engines, propellers, or parts, and no person may operate a product to which an AD applies except in accordance with the AD. FAA-H-8083-30B chapter 2 explains that an Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC) allows different approaches or techniques not specified in the AD to be used, after FAA approval, to correct the unsafe condition. Even though the alternative was not known when the AD was issued, it may be acceptable to accomplish the intent of the AD. A compliance time that differs from the AD can also be approved if the revised time period and approved alternative method provide an acceptable level of safety.

STUDY TIP

An AMOC is never self-authorized; the key word in every AMOC question is FAA approval, whether the change is the method or the compliance time.

KEY POINTS

  • ADs are mandatory and must be complied with as written unless an AMOC is approved.
  • An AMOC is an alternative technique approved by the FAA to meet the intent of the AD.
  • A different compliance time can also be approved if it provides an acceptable level of safety.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch02 "Alternative Method of Compliance"
  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch02 "Airworthiness Directives (AD)"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-30B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – General, 14 CFR part 43 and part 65. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.