Airworthiness Directives (AD)

Course Overview

This course provides a clear, practical understanding of Airworthiness Directives (ADs)—the legal mechanisms used to correct unsafe conditions in aircraft, engines, propellers, and appliances. You’ll learn how ADs are created, classified, implemented, and tracked across different authorities, and how maintenance organisations integrate AD compliance into continuing airworthiness.

Learning Objectives

• Define airworthiness and explain what an Airworthiness Directive is.
• Understand the global regulatory framework (ICAO, FAA, EASA) governing ADs.
• Differentiate AD classifications (Emergency, Final Rule, NPRM; repetitive vs. non-repetitive; superseded/revised).
• Describe the AD issuance process and stakeholder roles (authorities, manufacturers, operators).
• Interpret the structure and key terminology used in an AD and identify mandatory actions.
• Apply compliance, recording, and tracking practices within maintenance records and systems.
• Distinguish ADs from Service Bulletins (SBs) and Safety Information Bulletins (SIBs).
• Integrate AD management into CAMO/Part-145 procedures and responsibilities.
• Explore future trends: digital ADs and predictive airworthiness using data/AI.
• Analyse real case studies to connect regulation with operational practice.

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Airworthiness Directives

• 1.1 What is Airworthiness?
• 1.2 Definition of Airworthiness Directive (AD)
• 1.3 Purpose and significance of ADs in aviation safety
• 1.4 History and evolution of the AD system

Module 2: Regulatory Framework and Authority Responsibilities

• 2.1 ICAO Annex 8 – Airworthiness of Aircraft (overview)
• 2.2 FAA (14 CFR Part 39) – Airworthiness Directives
• 2.3 EASA (Part 21.A.3B) – Airworthiness Directives
• 2.4 Coordination between authorities (bilateral agreements, validation)

Module 3: Classification and Types of ADs

• 3.1 Emergency ADs (Immediate compliance)
• 3.2 Final Rule ADs
• 3.3 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) ADs
• 3.4 Repetitive vs Non-repetitive ADs
• 3.5 Superseded and Revised ADs

Module 4: AD Issuance Process

• 4.1 AD proposal, public comment, and issuance (FAA/EASA procedure)
• 4.2 Flowchart: AD development process
• 4.3 Role of manufacturers and operators in the process

Module 5: Structure and Content of an AD

• 5.1 AD format overview
• 5.2 Key terminology used in ADs
• 5.3 Mandatory vs recommended actions

Module 6: Compliance and Implementation

• 6.1 Operator’s responsibilities for compliance
• 6.2 Recording and tracking of AD compliance
• 6.3 Time limits and recurring inspections
• 6.4 Documentation in aircraft maintenance records (logbooks, AMP)
• 6.5 Tools/software for AD tracking

Module 7: Relationship with Other Airworthiness Documents

• 7.1 Service Bulletins (SBs)
• 7.2 EASA Safety Information Bulletins (SIBs)
• 7.3 Differences: SB vs AD vs SIB

Module 8: AD Management in Maintenance Organisations

• 8.1 AD review and applicability check process
• 8.2 Integration in Continuing Airworthiness Management (CAMO procedures)
• 8.3 Roles of Part-145 and CAMO staff

Module 9: Future of Airworthiness Directives

• 9.1 Digital AD databases and automation
• 9.2 Predictive airworthiness management using AI/Big Data

Module 10: Case Studies

• 10.1 Aloha Airlines Flight 243 – Boeing 737-200
• 10.2 Boeing 737 Rudder PCU Malfunctions
• 10.3 Pratt & Whitney PW4000

Who Should Attend

• B1/B2 licensed engineers and trainees
• CAMO and Part-145 staff
• Pilots and airline operations/quality personnel
• Regulatory/compliance officers
• Aviation students preparing for exams/interviews

Final Assessment & Certification

Upon completion, participants will take a final assessment to demonstrate their understanding. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to those who meet the passing criteria.

• Mode: Online
• Course Duration: 45 Minutes
• Validity: 365 Days
• We carefully evaluate the candidates taking up this course. Email us at info@academyaviationonline.com and share your interest in taking up this course.