New FAA Guidance on Suspected Unapproved Parts

The FAA has updated the advisory circular that provides guidance on detecting and reporting suspected unapproved parts (SUPs).  This advisory circular is identified as Detecting and Reporting Suspected Unapproved Parts, FAA AC 21-29C CHG 2 (August 17, 2011).

The update provides new references to various sections in Part 21, to coincide with the October 16, 2009 changes in Part 21. It also makes reference to the new commercial parts definition (part of the 2009 rule change), and clarifies that commercial parts are approved parts.

All references to “fabrication inspection systems” are removed from the guidance in this change.  The concept of “fabrication inspection systems” was removed from the regulations in favor of unified standard production quality system regulations for all production approval holders.  Now, PMA regulations point to 14 C.F.R. 21.137 as the source for standard production quality system requirements for all production approval applicants and holders.

Finally, the guidance is updated to reflect changed addresses and telephone contact numbers.

The newest guidance can be found online here:

• Detecting and Reporting Suspected Unapproved Parts, FAA AC 21-29C CHG 2 (August 17, 2011)