Who can inspect and approve an engine major repair for return to service?

The approval for an engine major repair for return to service must be carried out by a certificated mechanic with inspection authorization. This requirement is established by aviation regulations, which designate that only qualified individuals with the necessary certifications can evaluate and ensure that major repairs meet safety and regulatory standards. The inspection authorization status indicates that a mechanic has additional training and experience, allowing them to inspect both major and minor repairs, sign off on the work, and verify that it is airworthy.

Other options, while they may have roles in aviation, do not meet the specific regulatory criteria for approving major repairs. A licensed pilot is primarily responsible for the operation of the aircraft and does not have the authority to inspect or approve mechanical work. An aeronautical engineer may have the technical expertise but typically does not have the certification required for hands-on inspections and approvals in the context of aircraft repairs. An aircraft owner may have significant knowledge of their aircraft but does not possess the necessary certification to perform inspections or approve repairs unless they are also a certificated mechanic with the appropriate authorizations.