ASTM F3806-26

1.1 This guide covers common questions with the airworthiness requirements for composite airframe damage tolerance evaluations of normal category level 1, 2, 3 and 4 aeroplanes defined in Specification F3115/F3115M, and points to resources containing more detailed information.

The material was developed through open consensus of international experts in general aviation.

This information was created by focusing on Normal Category aeroplanes.

The content may be more broadly applicable; it is the responsibility of the applicant to substantiate broader applicability as a specific means of compliance.

1.2 Units— The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use.

It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 This standard guides an applicant in addressing the sections of Specification F3115/F3115M as they pertain to structures comprised of composite materials. These sections of Specification F3115/F3115M were previously found in 14 CFR 23.573/CS 23.573, and were introduced to address the growing use of composite materials in aircraft primary structure.

CAA’s and industry organizations have developed a significant amount of information to be used when showing compliance with these requirements. Rather than duplicating or generating other guidance, this guide points to those references.

5.2 This guide was developed by considering the questions an applicant may have of the Specification F3115/F3115M requirements. The questions are presented and followed with a brief answer.

Further details and guidance on how the applicant can show compliance with the requirements are referenced at the end of each question. Note that the content is arranged to follow the relevant sections of Specification F3115/F3115M.

5.3 Each certifying applicant is responsible for presenting their compliance plans to the CAA. The acceptability of any compliance plan and the proposed data for showing compliance is determined by the CAA.

5.4 The applicant must consider the aircraft certification level, aircraft performance level and operations for showing compliance to the regulations and requirements appropriately. The compliance demonstration proposed should be proportionate to these attributes.

Much of the information referenced in this guide is generic in nature. The details of how the applicant will show compliance with the regulations must be tailored to their design and coordinated with the certification authorities.