### Question
How does the law define aviation critical safety item?


### Answer
Under *10 U.S.C. § 3243*, **aviation critical safety item** is defined as:

> a part, an assembly, installation equipment, launch equipment, recovery equipment, or support equipment for an aircraft or aviation weapon system if the part, assembly, or equipment contains a characteristic any failure, malfunction, or absence of which could cause a catastrophic or critical failure resulting in the loss of or serious damage to the aircraft or weapon system, an unacceptable risk of personal injury or loss of life, or an uncommanded engine shutdown that jeopardizes safety

#### Citation:
  - *10 U.S.C. § 3243*
  - Heading: **Subtitle A-General Military Law > PART V-ACQUISITION > Subpart B-Acquisition Planning > CHAPTER 223-OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO PLANNING AND SOLICITATION GENERALLY**

