Compliance & documentation
Regulatory context for release certificates, traceability, and how brokered parts transactions are structured
AME Mechanica LLC is an independent broker only. We do not certify, approve, or release aircraft parts. Airworthiness documentation is issued by the seller of record (for example, an FAA- or EASA-approved organization).
Our broker role
Knowing how a broker differs from a distributor helps you assign responsibilities correctly
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 from the seller of record (manufacturer, distributor, or repair station). AME Mechanica introduces parties and assists with coordination; the commercial sale is between you and that seller unless otherwise agreed in writing.
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
Many parts require authorized release documentation from an approved organization
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:
- Operations or registrations that span FAA and EASA jurisdictions
- Parts for fleets or aircraft subject to more than one authority's rules
- When your approved maintenance program explicitly requires dual release
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
Who approves installing a part on a particular aircraft
Installation certification
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 complete the maintenance record entry required by 14 CFR 43.9 or equivalent EASA rules.
Broker vs. distributor
How an independent broker differs from a distributor in 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
Regulations that can apply when parts or technical data cross borders
Aviation goods and related technical data may be subject to export controls and trade sanctions, 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 typically determines export classification, obtains licenses when required, and executes lawful shipments. Buyers must provide accurate end-use, end-user, and destination information and comply with obligations that apply to them.
AME Mechanica may perform sanctions and compliance screening in line with our policies but does not provide legal classifications or export determinations. Obtain advice from qualified export counsel for specific transactions.
Questions about compliance?
We can explain how we work with documentation and introduce suppliers that fit your program—subject to each seller's scope and approvals
Email: info@amemechanica.com