Does work on RV's qualify towards A&P training?

[Jesse]

I just signed off an apprentice to go to the FAA and get his approval letter to take his A&P tests. They almost didn't give it to him because he listed work on experimentals. Is this a new rule! Has anybody else run into this before?

[Weasel]

My brother got his A&P rating just a few years ago. He listed experimental work along with other experience and did not have a problem.

I think it depends on who is reviewing the application.

Personalty I think a person who has completely built an experimental airplane from start to finish gains a lot more knowledge than the one that goes to a school to learn. There are bad habits that would be picked up either way.

The A&P that signed his letter of recommendation said put anything on it that you can relate to aviation experience. It cant hurt.

[Ironflight]

Totally depends on the FSDO and the inspector - I have heard stories of this working and not working over many decades. Best idea is to find a FSDO that is friendly in this regard - and hope the right inspector is still working there!

Paul

[DonFromTX]

Much of my experience was based on experimentals, and was not considered to be a problem, but that was way back many years ago.

[Mel]

As posted above, it all depends on the local FAA office.

Technically work towards an A&P certificate is to be on certified aircraft because on those you are working to establish compliance with the type certificate. When I got mine back in the early '70s, no "experimental" work was accepted.

However more and more offices are accepting work, especially building, an amateur-built aircraft. Don't be too surprised if they do not accept that work though.

[Jesse]

What a great combination of beurocracy and local independent interpretation. A ton of little empires-in-themselves in the middle of a huge beurocracy. I love the irony (and hate it at the same time).

Another example is the new Phase 1 "rule". My local DAR had never heard of it and won't even consider researching it.

[Mel]

Originally Posted by Jesse

What a great combination of beurocracy and local independent interpretation. A ton of little empires-in-themselves in the middle of a huge beurocracy. I love the irony (and hate it at the same time).

Another example is the new Phase 1 "rule". My local DAR had never heard of it and won't even consider researching it.

Then he/she has a problem. It's supposed to be part of the current operating limitations.

[Jesse]

Originally Posted by Mel

Then he/she has a problem. It's supposed to be part of the current operating limitations.

My point exactly!

[rmartingt]

This actually brings up a question I've been wanting to ask...

How would one realistically go about getting an A&P without having to give up one's present job and work as an apprentice? I know there's an experience requirement, and I'm not trying to get out of it; I'm just looking for ways to get that experience without doing it as my job or quitting work and being a full-time student--I rather like my present job, and having the A&P would quite possibly benefit me there.

[fixnflyguy]

I am an AP/IA and work at a major MRO (Modification,Repair,Overhaul) facility where we do everything imaginable on large aircraft. We have many employees working there whom are seeking an AP certificate, and working with the local FSDO we document experience hours and what functions they perform under the supervision and guidance of a certificated mechanic. Because they cannot achieve the required training for GA aircraft, I involve them in helping me with annual inspections, repairs and engine work on "small" aircraft at my home field. I provide them with a logbook/letter to the FSDO of the tasks they helped perform and hours they spend with me. It is typically a minimum of 36 months experience before being considered eligible to test, but it all depends on the FSDO and what you can prove about your backround experience.