What is the purpose of an Airworthiness Directive (AD)?

The purpose of an Airworthiness Directive (AD) is to require aircraft owners to address safety issues that have been discovered in specific aircraft or aircraft components. When the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identifies a potential safety risk, it issues an AD that mandates certain actions, such as inspections, repairs, or modifications. This regulatory tool is crucial in ensuring that aviation safety standards are upheld and that hazardous conditions are rectified to prevent accidents and incidents.

ADs are legally enforceable and must be complied with to maintain the airworthiness of the aircraft. By ensuring adherence to these directives, the FAA aims to mitigate risks and enhance the safety of the aviation system as a whole. This is distinct from other efforts, such as encouraging voluntary compliance with safety standards or issuing general information about operations, which may not carry the same legal weight or urgency as an AD.