A Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) is a combined design and production approval issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permitting the manufacture of replacement or modification parts for civil aircraft. Sourcing PMA components offers cost-effective alternatives to OEM parts without sacrificing quality, compliance, or airworthiness. At American Aviation Parts, we assist mechanics, IAs, and procurement specialists in identifying certified PMA replacements and reviewing technical data before purchase. For an in-depth breakdown of regulatory standards, consult our guide on FAA PMA Parts Explained.
Airworthiness Directive (AD) Applicability
The regulatory status of a PMA component relative to mandatory directives. When an AD targets an OEM component, installers must verify whether the directive explicitly applies to PMA equivalents or if the PMA manufacturer has issued technical data providing compliance instructions. Refer to our FAA-Approved Parts Guide for regulatory verification protocols.
Design Approval
The formal FAA authorization acknowledging that a proposed PMA replacement part meets airworthiness standards under 14 CFR Part 21. Approval is granted either through identicality with licensing or through test and computation evaluations. Many high-wear Airframe Parts rely on design approvals to ensure identical structural performance.
Identicality
A method of obtaining PMA design approval where the applicant proves that the component design is identical to the OEM part design. This is typically established through a licensing agreement with the Original Equipment Manufacturer or design holder.
Licensing Agreement
A legal contract between an OEM and a third-party manufacturer allowing the third party to use original engineering drawings and production specifications. This agreement simplifies the PMA approval process by establishing identicality for engine items, gaskets, or specialized assemblies like a Lycoming Superior Gasket Set SL75439-1 75439-1.
PMA Supplement
An official FAA document listing approved replacement part numbers, corresponding OEM part numbers, eligible engine or aircraft models, and installation limitations. Before ordering, technicians should reference the PMA supplement to verify model and serial number applicability. You can search American Aviation Parts by PMA or OEM part numbers to confirm fitment.
Production Approval Holder (PAH)
A manufacturer certified under FAA regulations to produce aircraft parts. A PAH must maintain a quality control system meeting 14 CFR Part 21 standards to ensure every produced component conforms to its approved design data. Specialized wear items, such as Air Filters or heavy-duty brake components like a Brake Disc Aps 164-06406, are built under strict PAH quality frameworks.
STC-PMA
A PMA granted based on a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). STC-PMA parts are typically design modifications or performance upgrades rather than direct drop-in OEM replacements. Products from specialized manufacturers like APS often fall into performance modification categories requiring specific STC or PMA installation approvals.
Test and Computation
The PMA approval path used when an applicant does not have a licensing agreement with the OEM. The manufacturer must prove through detailed engineering analysis, laboratory testing, and reverse engineering that the candidate part equals or exceeds the OEM part's safety and performance characteristics. Equipment such as a 3 1/8 inch Cessna Mechanical Tachometer by Superior Labs Sl 55002-14-N00 SL1010-55002-14-N00 C668020-2020 Cessna C-172 Marking Redline 2700 demonstrates third-party engineering approval for specific panel applications.
Traceability Documentation
The paper or electronic audit trail accompanying an aviation component to prove its manufacturing origin, quality control clearance, and regulatory status. Common forms include FAA Form 8130-3 or Certificates of Conformity (C of C). American Aviation Parts provides full documentation support to ensure streamlined return-to-service records for your facility.