Things to consider when buying an amateur-built aircraft: 

• Examine the Special Airworthiness Certificate and its operating limitations. This certificate is used for all aircraft that fall under experimental status and states for what purpose it was issued. The operating limitations specify any operating restrictions that may apply to the aircraft. 

• Check the aircraft maintenance records of the airframe, engine, propeller, and accessories. Under 14 CFR part 91, sections 91.305 and 91.319(b), all initial flight operations of experi- mental aircraft may be limited to an assigned flight test area. This is called Phase I. The aircraft is flown in this designated area until it is shown to be controllable throughout its normal range of speeds and all maneuvers to be executed, and that it has not displayed any hazardous operating characteristics or design features. The required flight time may vary for each type of aircraft and is covered in the operating limitations. 

• After the flight time requirements are met, the owner/operator endorses the aircraft logbook with a statement certifying that the prescribed flight hours are completed and the aircraft complies with 14 CFR part 91, section 91.319(b). Phase I records are retained for the life of the aircraft. 

• In Phase II, the FAA may prescribe Operating Limitations for an unlimited duration, as appropriate. 

• Before taking delivery of the aircraft, make a final pre-purchase inspection. Ensure that the Special Airworthiness Certificate, Operating Limitations, Aircraft Data Plate, Weight and Balance data, Aircraft Maintenance Records, and any other required documents are with the aircraft. If the Special Airworthiness Certificate, Operating Limitations, and Aircraft Data Plate are surrendered to the FAA by the original builder, you may not be able to recertificate the aircraft because you are not the builder. 

• Amateur-built aircraft require a condition in- spection within the previous 12 calendar months. This inspection requirement and those who are eligible to work on the aircraft are addressed in the Operating Limitations of that particular aircraft. 

## military surplus Aircraft 

Certain surplus military aircraft are not eligible for FAA certification in the STANDARD, RESTRICTED, or LIMITED classifications. The FAA, in cooperation with the Department of Defense (DOD), normally performs preliminary “screening” inspections on surplus military aircraft to determine the civil certi- fication potential of the aircraft. For aircraft eligible for potential certification, you must “show” the FAA that your aircraft conforms to the FAA-approved type design (type certificate), and that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation (airworthy). This means you are required to provide the technical data necessary to support this showing. 

For example, certain military surplus aircraft may be eligible for certification in the RESTRICTED category and modified for special purpose operations. Military-derived RESTRICTED category aircraft may be manufactured in the United States or in a foreign country, but military surplus aircraft must be surplus of the U.S. Armed Forces. The FAA bases its certi- fication on the operation and maintenance of the air- craft including review of the service life of the aircraft and any modifications. 

When an aircraft has been modified by the military, you must either return the aircraft to the originally approved civil configuration, or obtain FAA design approval for the military modification. This is accomplished through the STC process. The STC process is also necessary for modifications to the aircraft for a special purpose operation (e.g., crop dusting). Once the FAA determines that the military surplus aircraft conforms to the FAA- approved type design, as noted in FAA Order 8130.2 (as revised), Airworthiness Certification of Aircraft and Related Products, and military records, you may apply for an airworthiness certificate. 

Since no civil aircraft may be flown unless certifica- ted, you should discuss this with an ASI at your local FSDO, who can advise you of eligible aircraft and certification procedures. An additional source for advice on amateur-built and surplus military aircraft is the EAA. 

