What is a type certification data sheet?
The Type Certificate Data Sheet includes general information about the design such as dimensions, wing loading, limiting airspeeds and required placards and markings, control surface travel, engine installations and, where applicable, approved engine/propeller combinations. Type certification is the approval of the design of the aircraft and all component parts (including propellers, engines, control stations, etc. It signifies the design is in compliance with applicable airworthiness, noise, fuel venting, and exhaust emissions standards.A type certificate is issued by the National Aviation Authority (NAA) of the State of the Operator stating the airworthiness standard for the aircraft type, model, aircraft engine or aircraft propeller.There are three general types of certification. Listed in order of development level and portability, they are: corporate (internal), product-specific, and profession-wide. Corporate, or internal certifications, are made by a corporation or low-stakes organization for internal purposes.
What is a type certificate?
A type certificate signifies the airworthiness of a particular category of aircraft, according to its manufacturing design (type design). Certification confirms that the aircraft of a new type intended for serial production is in compliance with applicable airworthiness requirements established by the national air law. In conclusion, Type Certificate (TC) and Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) are two important concepts in the aviation industry that ensure aircraft safety and compliance with airworthiness requirements. TC is issued for a new aircraft design, while STC is issued for a modification to an existing aircraft design.The TC is a certificate that only the aircraft manufacturer can obtain and modify. The STC, on the other hand, is obtained and modified by others who are not the manufacturer. Another key difference is the cost and process of obtaining certification.A Type Certificate (TC) is granted for new aircraft designs, whereas a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) applies to major modifications of existing designs other than the TC holder. Supplemental Type Certificates are essential for major upgrades, like avionics enhancements, without re-certifying the entire aircraft.