The Experimental Aircraft Association is endorsing a new best-practices guide released by the Federal Aviation Administration, designed to assist owners of aging aircraft to properly maintain their vintage aircraft.

EAA and other general aviation organizations provided major input on the development of the industry best-practices guide, which FAA will mail later this month to owners of single- and twin-piston engine aircraft built prior to 1974. The entire guide is also available as a PDF document through the EAA web site.

"Keeping aging aircraft flying has been, and continues to be, a major emphasis for EAA," said Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice President of Government and Industry Relations. "We will build on this industry document toward meeting the needs of these aircraft owners. Cooperative efforts such as these are critical, as they help prevent the need for additional regulation and reminds aircraft owners of the many resources available to them."

The guide outlines methods that establish a baseline for inspecting again aircraft, along with specific areas that need attention. It also directs aircraft owners to a variety of resources that can be helpful, including EAA and various aircraft type clubs. This is important, as finding reliable information for older aircraft can sometimes be difficult because the manufacturer no longer exists or is not in a position to offer extensive customer service.

The best-practices guide also offers a detailed checklist that helps aging aircraft owners inspect and maintain critical areas of their aircraft. In addition, it offers ideas for aircraft owners to create their own specific checklist that includes such items as FAA Advisory Circulars and Airworthiness Directives, among other important information.

"These practices will help preserve and maintain vintage aircraft not only for the current owner, but for future owners of that particular aircraft," Lawrence added. "There are thousands of these magnificent aircraft currently operating today. These guidelines will help make sure they are enjoyed by the next generations as well."

FMI: www.eaa.org/communications/eaanews/agingbestpractices9021.pdf