FAR 21.217 — Provisional Certificate Duration
FAR 21.217 explains how long provisional airworthiness certificates remain valid. Learn the rule, key terms, and likely DPE oral exam questions.
FAR 21.217 sets the effective period for a provisional airworthiness certificate. In plain terms, this kind of certificate doesn't have its own fixed expiration date — instead, its lifespan is tied directly to the underlying type certificate document it was issued against.
A provisional airworthiness certificate stays effective for the duration of the corresponding:
- Provisional type certificate, or
- Amendment to a provisional type certificate, or
- Provisional amendment to the type certificate.
It ends earlier if it is:
- Surrendered by the holder,
- Superseded by another certificate,
- Revoked by the FAA, or
- Otherwise terminated.
Why it matters operationally: provisional certificates are used during the period when an aircraft model is still being certified but limited operations are authorized. Operators relying on a provisional airworthiness certificate must track the status of the related type certificate document, because the moment that document lapses or is replaced, their authority to operate under the provisional certificate ends.