Mechanic Certification: Inspection Rating and Recent Experience Requirements
FAA proposes replacing inspection authorization with an inspection rating on mechanic certificates, and updating recent experience requirements. This will change how mechanics qualify to perform inspections.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Aviation Maintenance & Airworthiness (FAA) space on July 16, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated Medium urgency. Part 145 repair stations, Part 135/121 operators, flight schools, corporate flight departments should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Comment period ends 60 days after publication (around August 30, 2026).. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Aviation Maintenance & Airworthiness (FAA) continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
Inspection authorization replaced by inspection rating; new recent experience requirements for mechanics.
Who it affects
Part 145 repair stations, Part 135/121 operators, flight schools, corporate flight departments
What you must do
Review proposed rule and prepare for changes in mechanic certification and inspection processes.
Deadline
Comment period ends 60 days after publication (around August 30, 2026).
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