#13 – Maintenance Records vs Maintenance "Cards"

Many aircraft operators subscribe to one of several computerized maintenance tracking services that provide cards or work forms that detail the maintenance and/or inspection items to be performed on their aircraft at a specific time. We have found that some operators are assuming that completion of these forms meets the maintenance records-keeping requirements of FARs 43.9, 43.11, and 91.417.

It does not! Some maintenance personnel are simply entering the form or operation numbers of the cards or forms completed in the airframe and engine logbooks, instead of an adequate description of the work performed. Again, this is contrary to the requirements of the FARs.

Also, some operators are assuming that subscription to these services relieves them of the necessity to keep track of all required inspections, overhaul times, and life-limited items. Most emphatically, IT DOES NOT! We have found several instances where required inspections and certain life-limited items were long overdue, and were not even on the service provider's computer for the aircraft. (And when is the last time you reviewed Chapter 5 of the Westwind Maintenance Manual?)

Remember, the registered owner or operator is responsible for keeping the maintenance records current (Ref. FAR 91.417(a)) and the aircraft airworthy.