Thanks to years of EAA’s advocacy efforts, in March the FAA unveiled a new program for the use of certain off-the-shelf parts in type-certificated aircraft. VARMA streamlines two existing policies, AC 43-18 and AC 23-27, to make it easier for vintage aircraft owners and mechanics to access off-the-shelf parts that may have been difficult to obtain approval for.
Key points:
- VARMA applies to small aircraft type-certificated before 1980 (not necessarily manufactured before 1980).
- VARMA does not apply to parts that have already have a PMA equivalent available and accessible.
- All approvals are on an individual basis, and manufacturers cannot advertise “VARMA-approved” parts as multiple-use approvals are not authorized.
- The required data for approvals varies based on the criticality category of the part.
VARMA is a positive first step for the vintage aircraft community, but we are by no means satisfied with the current state of maintainability and modernization in the aging aircraft fleet. We will continue to work for low-cost STCs, simplified PMAs for new manufacturers, and other means of part and material substitutions consistent with safety. We will continue to work to expand VARMA to the greatest extent possible.
