First and foremost is the DAR works with you on your schedule. Most "on-sight" inspections
would be best handled on weekends, keeping it less offensive to those that work during the week. Likewise those
that work weekends enjoy the comfort of knowing that the time they set aside for the inspection has less of a chance of
being interrupted by a work issue that popped up in the FAA office that's to cause a reschedule. Experience developed over the years will come in handy in getting your certification
paperwork through
correctly the first time. In addition reports of a more thorough aircraft inspection than they expected
along with comments such as " He found several items that I needed to correct that could have caused me some interesting
moments aloft" or not uncommon.
4) "What does the DAR want to see during his visit?"
While paperwork is important, it takes a blend
of good documentation and a safe aircraft to keep our industry afloat. A good DAR understands this concept and will blend
a well rounded balance between the two. Most of the paperwork issues have been discussed prior to his visit and should
be corrected before he arrives. The on-sight visit is to look at the aircraft and determine it's ability to meet
the intended design. To do this the DAR will need to inspect the aircraft to the point of his satisfaction, balance
the project against the
drawings supplied (if it's a kit built aircraft), and discuss his findings with the builder of the aircraft
for correction. A good rule of thumb is to have the aircraft opened up as though you are going to do
an Annual Condition Inspection. Be sure to have a basic tool set available should the DAR request additional
access during the inspection. Have with you the drawings that came with the kit. Pictures, pictures, pictures (referred
to as the builders log) with you in them building the aircraft. The old saying that "a picture speaks a thousand
words" was developed by the amateur builder community. These pictures not only come in handy when
applying for your repairmen's certificate but will serve as a living document of the construction of the aircraft
should it require repair in the future.
5) "How long does it take after the on-sight visit before
the aircraft can be flown"
If all went well during the visit your aircraft
can be flown as soon as it's closed up and returned to an airworthy condition. Most builders seem to prefer to wait a
day or so to collect there thoughts and mentally prepare for the long awaited event. Remember in as much as your
going to prove that this aircraft will fly, you will be proving that you can fly this aircraft. The best advantage to
a safe first flight experience is a well rested and prepared pilot.
until next time.....
Dan Folkers
Bright Star Aviation
