FAR 21.133 — Production Certificate Application
FAR 21.133 requires applicants to apply for a production certificate in the form and manner prescribed by the FAA. Plain-English summary and oral prep.
FAR 21.133 is a short procedural rule under Part 21 (Certification Procedures for Products and Articles). It states that anyone who wants a production certificate from the FAA must submit an application in the form and manner prescribed by the FAA.
In plain English:
- A production certificate is FAA authorization to manufacture a type-certificated aircraft, engine, or propeller in series.
- The applicant (typically a manufacturer) cannot just send any letter — the FAA dictates the format, content, and process for the application.
- This rule itself doesn't list the specific forms; it points to whatever procedure the FAA currently requires.
Why it matters operationally: As a pilot, you'll never personally apply for a production certificate, but understanding Part 21 helps you trace the airworthiness chain. The aircraft you fly was built under a production certificate that started with this application step, ensuring the manufacturer is approved and supervised by the FAA before any aircraft leave the factory.