Preventive Maintenance

In our daily contact with thousands of aircraft owners and pilots, one major theme prevails. AOPA members are deeply concerned about the high costs associated with owning and operating general aviation aircraft. As pilots, most of us are not mechanics by training or occupation, yet many of us derive satisfaction from tinkering with mechanical things, especially aircraft. By performing routine maintenance on our own aircraft we not only gain personal satisfaction but also become better educated about the equipment we fly, making us better and safer pilots. The opportunity also exists to save a substantial percentage of the annual maintenance costs associated with aircraft ownership.

If you have any additional questions or comments after reading this subject report, please feel free to call the AOPA’s Pilots Information Center at: 1-800-USA-AOPA (872-2672) Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 6:00 ET.

Check the FAR Part 43, Appendix A, Paragraph C—Preventive Maintenance to ensure you follow all regulations.

Additional Resources

The Owner Mechanic, AOPA Flight Training, April 2011