Upon publication of ASTM standard F3361, Classifying Alterations for In-Service Aircraft Under FAA Authority Oversight, the Aircraft Electronics Association petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration to recognize it as an acceptable means of compliance for the evaluation of alterations while making a determination of major or minor.
The regulations addressing the criteria for major and minor alterations are well established, and there are guidance and policies on how to proceed once a determination has been made; however, the fundamental process of the initial evaluation and making the determination has been lacking.
Following two years of research and capturing industry best practices, including the AEA's training, Architecture of an Alteration, ASTM developed and published the industry consensus standard: ASTM standard F3361, Classifying Alterations for In-Service Aircraft Under FAA Authority Oversight.
In an effort to promote consistency and standardization, the AEA petitioned the FAA for acceptance of the ASTM standard as an acceptable means of compliance. As an FAA-recognized AMC, this document is essentially the same as if it was published as an advisory circular.
This acceptable means of compliance is acceptable for the evaluation of alterations on all U.S.-registered aircraft, not withstanding other regulatory requirements contained within Parts 121 and 135.
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