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 What
is a STC?
>STC means Supplemental Type Certificate. This is
an FAA term that applies only to production aircraft. Regarding
fabric, any fabric or coatings placed on a production aircraft must
meet FAA standards. That means the covering process must possess a
Supplemental Type Certificate.
How
about using Ceconite fabric and Poly-Fiber chemicals?
>Even though this would work it is not legal. You
must abide strictly by the STC. The Poly-Fiber STC does not allow
Poly-Fiber chemicals to be placed on Ceconite fabric. When the STC
is voided the aircraft is grounded.
How
about an experimental airplane?
>You can cover an experimental airplane with
anything you like. STC's do not apply. However, for the longevity of
your fabric you should use a STC process.
What
is a form 337?
>A form 337 must be completed when a major repair
is accomplished on a production airplane. Recovering the airplane is
considered a major repair. An A & P mechanic must complete this
form and the airplane returned to service by an A & P with an
Inspector's Authorization.
Where
do I find the STC number for Poly-Fiber covering on my airplane?
>The STC number for all eligible airplanes using
the Poly-Fiber system is SA1008WE. Most fabric airplanes are on this
STC. If you have a rare airplane and are in doubt about the STC
applying to your aircraft, contact Poly-Fiber at 800-362-3490.
I
do not have an A & P license. Can I recover my production
airplane?
>The answer is yes, under the supervision of a
licensed airframe mechanic. FAR Part 43 (d) covers this issue. FAR
43.3 (d) allows an individual to perform maintenance on a production
aircraft without holding a mechanic's certificate if that person
works under the supervision of a licensed mechanic. Under this
regulation a person may restore an antique or classic airplane
without holding an A & P license. What does the term supervision
entail? Basically, a licensed mechanic can show you what to do,
leave you alone to do it, return periodically to ensure the work is
being properly completed, and then sign off the work when complete.
The mechanic supervising your work is responsible for signing the
logbook. With that in mind, they will certainly want to supervise
what you are doing to ensure it is being properly accomplished. They
are ultimately responsible for the work that is being performed on
the airplane. So, under the supervision of a licensed airframe
mechanic you can recover your own production airplane.
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