What is an IA, and why does it matter for my annual?
Updated · Wingman AeroCare, KFNL
Short answer: An IA is a certificated mechanic with both Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) ratings who also holds an FAA Inspection Authorization under 14 CFR 65.91. For an owner, the key fact is this: an annual inspection must be performed by an IA (or an appropriately rated repair station or the manufacturer), not by an A&P alone (14 CFR 65.95 and 91.409(a)). An IA can also approve major repairs and major alterations for return to service.
What does it take to become an IA?
Under 14 CFR 65.91(c), an applicant must:
- Hold a currently effective mechanic certificate with both Airframe and Powerplant ratings, each in effect for at least 3 years
- Have been actively engaged in maintaining certificated aircraft for at least the 2 years before applying
- Have a fixed base of operations where they can be reached in person or by telephone
- Have available the equipment, facilities, and inspection data needed to properly inspect airframes, engines, propellers, and appliances
- Pass a written test on the ability to inspect according to safety standards for returning aircraft to service after major repairs, major alterations, and annual and progressive inspections
What can an IA do that an A&P cannot?
| Task | A&P | IA |
|---|---|---|
| Routine maintenance and minor repairs, approve for return to service | Yes | Yes |
| 100-hour inspection, approve for return to service | Yes (14 CFR 65.85, 65.87) | Yes |
| Annual inspection, approve for return to service | No | Yes (14 CFR 65.95(a)(2)) |
| Approve a major repair or major alteration for return to service (Form 337) | No | Yes (14 CFR 65.95(a)(1)) |
| Perform or supervise a progressive inspection | No | Yes (14 CFR 65.95(a)(2)) |
An A&P can do the hands-on work of a major repair or alteration, but the final approval for return to service requires an IA or another authorized person or organization.
Does an IA have to stay current?
Yes. Under 14 CFR 65.92, an inspection authorization expires on March 31 of each odd-numbered year, so it must be renewed every two years. To renew, 14 CFR 65.93 requires the IA to keep meeting the basic eligibility requirements and to show recent inspection activity for each year of the cycle. That activity can be a set amount of annual inspections, approved major repairs or alterations, or progressive inspections, or alternatively an FAA-acceptable refresher course of at least 8 hours or an oral test with the FAA. This is why many IAs attend a refresher course every year.
An IA who changes their fixed base of operations may not exercise IA privileges until they notify the FAA Flight Standards office for the new area (14 CFR 65.95(c)).
Why does it matter for my annual?
- Legality. An annual signed only by an A&P without IA is not a valid annual inspection. If that signature is the last annual in your logbook, your aircraft is out of annual, which can affect both legality and insurance.
- Accountability. The IA who signs the annual is certifying that the aircraft was inspected under Part 43 Appendix D and found airworthy, or is giving you a signed list of discrepancies if it was not (14 CFR 43.11).
- Major repairs and alterations. If your annual uncovers a repair that qualifies as major, you need an IA (or other authorized approver) to sign the Form 337.
How do I check an IA's credentials?
Ask to see the mechanic certificate and confirm the IA is current. The logbook entry for an annual should include the inspector's name, signature, certificate number, and the notation of inspection authorization, along with the statement required by 14 CFR 43.11(a). If a buyer's inspector or the FAA questions an entry later, a clean, complete signature block protects you.
How Wingman handles it
At Wingman AeroCare, every annual is performed and signed off by an A&P mechanic holding Inspection Authorization, and 100-hour inspections by a certificated A&P, with work done under 14 CFR Part 43. Findings come to you on an online estimate with photos and video, labeled Airworthy, Recommended, or Optional, and nothing beyond your approved scope is done without your OK. Typical annual turnaround is 4-7 business days, assuming no major findings and parts availability. See annual inspections or call (970) 292-0719 for the next open slot.