A proper maintenance entry is described in FAR part 43.9 and 43.11 of the Federal Aviation Regulations.
FAR 43.9 states that the following conditions must be met to ensure a proper maintenance entry is made after accomplishing maintenance on the aircraft:
- A description of the work performed.
- The date of completion of the work performed.
- The name of the person performing the work if other than the person approving the work.
- The signature, certificate number, and kind of certificate held by the person approving the work.
FAR 43.11 states that the following conditions must be met to ensure a proper maintenance entry is made after performing an inspection to the aircraft:
- The type of inspection and a brief description of the extent of the inspection.
- The date of the inspection and the aircraft’s total time in service.
- The signature, certificate number, and kind of certificate held by the person approving the work.
- A statement, depending upon the Inspection Program the aircraft is following, of the type of inspection performed, the condition of the aircraft, whether it is approved for Return to Service, and a list of the discrepancies if it is not.
Conclusion:
A proper maintenance entry will contain the items specifically called-out in the FARs as required. Unless all of the information required by FAR 43.9 or 43.11 is included, the maintenance entry will not constitute a legal Approval for Return to Service of the Aircraft.
