Crewed AAM/UAM: A&P, IA, and Part 145
Work on crewed advanced air mobility aircraft follows the same rigor as traditional crewed aviation. Maintenance is performed and signed off by FAA-certificated Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanics, with an Inspection Authorization (IA) for higher-level approvals, and often within a Part 145 certificated repair station. Flight operations require appropriately type-rated pilots.
- FAA A&P (Airframe & Powerplant) mechanic certification
- Inspection Authorization (IA) for major sign-offs
- Part 145 repair station for organizational work
- Type-rated crew for flight operations
Uncrewed UAV/RPA: Part 107 and beyond
Commercial uncrewed operations are governed primarily by FAA Part 107, which certifies the remote pilot. Advanced operations layer on waivers, BVLOS authorizations, and Remote ID compliance. Crucially, an A&P or IA rating does not translate to authority over uncrewed operations, and a Part 107 remote pilot certificate does not authorize work on crewed aircraft.
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- Waivers and BVLOS authorizations for advanced operations
- Remote ID compliance
Why AAM Trader separates the two
Because the credentials do not overlap, AAM Trader keeps AAM/UAM services and UAV/RPA services as distinct categories. This ensures buyers engage providers who are actually qualified for their aircraft class, and providers are listed against the work they are certified to perform.
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Frequently asked questions
- Can an A&P mechanic work on drones commercially?
- An A&P certification is about crewed aircraft maintenance. Commercial uncrewed operations are governed by Part 107, which certifies the remote pilot. They are separate regimes; holding one does not confer the other.
- Does a Part 107 certificate let me service an eVTOL air taxi?
- No. Part 107 governs uncrewed operations. A crewed eVTOL requires A&P/IA-credentialed maintenance and type-rated crew, just like other crewed aircraft.
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always obtain an independent appraisal and a qualified pre-purchase inspection, and confirm current regulations with the relevant aviation authority before buying, selling, financing, or operating an aircraft.