NVIDIA Corp (NVDA)

[IanFromSI]

… worked for a pretty large corporation and took care of a fleet of their business jets. When an aircraft became disabled, and part replacement cost a lot of money. And they were told "Hey, this is going to cost a LOT of money to repair"!

I was under the impression that there is a very rigourous certification and recertification process with generally well known costs for several years into the future. Even a Piper Cub owned by a private individual and used exclusively for pleasure flying must comply with most of the following procedures.


In North America, commercial airplanes must undergo continuous airworthiness certification to remain operational. The certification process includes several key requirements:

1. Initial Type Certification

Before an aircraft model can be used commercially, it must receive a Type Certificate from aviation authorities like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the U.S. or Transport Canada (TC). This ensures the aircraft meets all safety and performance standards.

2. Airworthiness Certification

Each individual aircraft must receive an Airworthiness Certificate, confirming that it complies with its type design and is in condition for safe operation.

3. Ongoing Inspections and Maintenance

After certification, commercial aircraft must undergo regular inspections and maintenance to remain airworthy:
• Daily Inspections: Conducted before and after flights.
• A-Check (Every 400–600 flight hours or about every 1–2 months): Light maintenance, including system checks and fluid servicing.
• B-Check (Every 3–6 months): More detailed inspections of aircraft systems and components.
• C-Check (Every 18–24 months): Comprehensive inspection requiring several days in a maintenance hangar.
• D-Check (Every 6–12 years): The most extensive inspection, involving complete disassembly and thorough examination.

4. Recertification and Modifications

If an aircraft undergoes major modifications (e.g., new avionics or engines), it may require Supplemental Type Certification (STC).

5. Airline Compliance with Regulatory Audits

Airlines must maintain compliance with FAA, Transport Canada, and other regulatory audits. If an aircraft fails to meet standards, it can be grounded until it is recertified.