FAR 21.85 — Provisional Type Certificate Amendments
FAR 21.85 explains how applicants qualify for a provisional amendment to a type certificate, including required certifications, flight tests, and limitations.
FAR 21.85 sets the requirements for getting a provisional amendment to a type certificate — a temporary approval that lets a modified aircraft operate under restricted conditions while full certification is still in progress.
To qualify, the applicant (or the foreign country of manufacture, if applicable) must:
- Apply formally for the amendment and have an official flight test program underway.
- Certify that the modification was designed and built to the airworthiness standards applicable to the original type certificate.
- Show the aircraft substantially complies with applicable flight-characteristic requirements and can be operated safely.
- Submit a flight test report demonstrating safe operation within the limits of §§ 91.317 and 121.207.
- Publish all required limitations (weight, speed, maneuvers, loading, controls, equipment) in a provisional aircraft flight manual, document, or placards — or impose operating restrictions instead.
- Establish an inspection and maintenance program for continued airworthiness.
- Fly a prototype of the modified aircraft for the number of hours the FAA requires.
This matters operationally because it allows manufacturers and operators to begin limited use of modified aircraft before final certification, without compromising safety.
Five FAA-written-style questions. Instant explanations, every answer cites its source — no account needed.
You are flying VFR in Class E airspace at 8,500 feet MSL during the day. What are your minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements?