Compliance & Documentation
Understanding regulatory requirements, release certificates, and traceability standards for aviation parts procurement
AME Mechanica LLC operates as an independent broker. We do not certify, approve, or release aircraft parts. All certifications are provided by the approved supplier (seller of record).
Our Broker Role
Understanding the difference between a broker and a distributor is critical for compliance
AME Does NOT
- Buy, sell, or stock aircraft parts
- Take title or ownership of parts
- Issue airworthiness approvals
- Issue release certificates (8130-3, Form 1)
- Provide warranties or guarantees
- Act as the seller of record
- Certify parts for airworthiness
AME Provides
- Connect buyers with approved suppliers
- Source parts from global vendor network
- Verify supplier credentials & certifications
- Guide documentation requirements
- Coordinate transactions & logistics
- Provide market intelligence
- AOG emergency sourcing support
How Transactions Work
You receive quotes, invoices, parts, and release documentation directly from the seller of record (manufacturer, distributor, or repair station). AME Mechanica facilitates the connection but is not party to the sale.
Step 1: Buyer Contacts AME
Submit RFQ with part requirements
Step 2: AME Sources Supplier
Connect with approved seller of record
Step 3: Direct Transaction
Buyer transacts with seller directly
Release Documentation Standards
Aircraft parts require proper certification from approved organizations
FAA Form 8130-3
Authorized Release Certificate / Airworthiness Approval Tag
What it is:
The primary airworthiness approval document used in the United States for releasing aircraft parts, materials, and appliances back into service.
Who issues it:
- FAA Production Approval Holders (PAH)
- FAA-certificated repair stations (Part 145)
- Foreign authorities under bilateral agreements
What it certifies:
The part conforms to approved design data and is in a condition for safe operation (new, overhauled, repaired, or inspected).
EASA Form 1
Authorized Release Certificate (European Union)
What it is:
The European equivalent of FAA 8130-3, used to release aircraft parts and components into service under EASA regulations.
Who issues it:
- EASA Part 21 Production Organization Approval holders
- EASA Part 145 Maintenance Organization Approval holders
- National authorities under bilateral agreements
What it certifies:
The part has been manufactured, maintained, or overhauled in accordance with EASA-approved procedures and is airworthy.
Dual Release
Both FAA 8130-3 and EASA Form 1
Some suppliers hold both FAA and EASA approvals and can issue dual release documentation. Common for international operators needing compliance with both regulatory systems.
When you need dual release:
- Aircraft registered in EU operating in US airspace (or vice versa)
- Parts for aircraft with multiple jurisdictions
- Operators wanting maximum regulatory flexibility
Trace Documentation
For standard parts not requiring release certificates
Certain parts (hardware, consumables, some expendables) don't require 8130-3 or Form 1 but still need traceability to an approved source.
Trace documentation may include:
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Conformance (C of C)
- Commercial invoice with manufacturer details
- Material test reports
- Packing lists with lot/batch numbers
Note: Consult your maintenance organization to determine acceptable documentation for your specific installation.
Installation Certification Responsibility
Understanding who is responsible for installation approval
Installation Certification Responsibility
Neither AME Mechanica nor the parts supplier is responsible for installation approval.
Release documentation (FAA 8130-3, EASA Form 1) certifies that the part itself is airworthy and conforms to approved design. It does NOT constitute approval for installation onto a specific aircraft.
Installation certification is performed by the installer/operator per applicable regulations:
- A certificated mechanic with appropriate ratings (14 CFR Part 65)
- A certificated repair station (14 CFR Part 145 or EASA Part 145)
- The aircraft operator's approved maintenance organization
The installing mechanic or organization must ensure the part is eligible for installation per approved data (Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Illustrated Parts Catalog, Service Bulletins, etc.) and make the required maintenance record entry per 14 CFR §43.9 or equivalent EASA regulations.
Broker vs. Distributor: Understanding the Difference
Key differences between a broker and a distributor in aviation parts procurement
Authorized Distributor
- Buys and takes ownership of parts
- Stocks inventory
- Is the seller of record
- Issues invoices and collects payment
- May be AS9120-certified (aerospace QMS)
- Subject to FAA AC 00-56B distributor guidance
- Liable for parts sold
Reference: FAA AC 00-56B | AS9120 Standard
Independent Broker (AME Mechanica)
- Does NOT buy or take ownership of parts
- Does NOT stock inventory
- Is NOT the seller of record
- Does NOT issue invoices or collect payment
- Facilitates connections between buyers and sellers
- Provides sourcing and coordination services
- NOT liable for parts (seller is liable)
Our role is purely facilitation — the buyer transacts directly with the approved supplier.
Export Control & Sanctions Compliance
Understanding the regulations governing the export of aviation parts
Aircraft parts are subject to strict export controls and sanctions regulations, including:
- U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
- International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) — for defense articles
- EU Dual-Use Regulation
- OFAC sanctions programs (Office of Foreign Assets Control)
Responsibility: The seller of record is responsible for determining export classification, obtaining licenses (if required), and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. Buyers must provide accurate end-user information.
AME Mechanica screens suppliers and transactions for sanctions compliance but does not provide legal export control determinations. Consult with qualified export compliance counsel for specific guidance.
Questions About Compliance?
Our team can help you understand documentation requirements and connect you with suppliers who meet your regulatory needs
Email: info@amemechanica.com