Our previous post laid out the guidelines when an STC is needed, but why would an individual or company go through all the work and costs associated with gaining an STC? Primary reasons would be financial gain and ability to modify an aircraft to your liking (pending FAA approval). Chances are, if you think an aircraft or engine needs a change someone else does as well and there may be a business case to use your financial resources to make it happen. We will use this post to provide a couple examples of STC benefits and why companies seek them.
Financial Gain:
For most of us, aviation is our passion, but it is also a way for us to make a good living doing what we love. A company interested in an STC can research the market to determine what they feel customers would want, that could be higher HP engine, higher fuel flow engine, or new airplane avionics. Once that research is complete, the company can begin the process of obtaining an FAA STC (more on this next month) directly through the FAA or an ODA. Once the FAA STC is obtained, the owner of the STC can allow (for a price) other individuals and companies to alter their aircraft, engine, or propeller using the STC owner’s technical data.
Modification Capability:
Aircraft, Engine, and Propeller OEMs are great but sometimes for numerous reason do not add certain features to aircraft or an aircraft was produced many years ago and is missing some necessities (may be able to obtain via PMA) or nice to haves. Whatever the reason may be, companies can modify the aircraft and add capabilities to enhance the aircraft. The modification would need to be approved by the FAA, this is to ensure that the aircraft or engine remains airworthy.
This one of our shorter posts, it is essentially a continuous of last month on STC and why a company would choose to seek it. No matter the reason, our goal is to improve aerospace industry from a safety and enjoyment perspective. We look forward to our DER working with you in the future and helping bring your STC project to life. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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