Which of the following statements is true for a certificated and appropriately rated mechanic regarding repairs and alterations?

• A. He may perform an airframe major repair or major alteration and approve for return to service
• B. He may perform an airframe major repair or major alteration, but cannot approve for return to service
• C. He may perform only minor repairs and cannot approve for return to service
• D. He may perform any repair and approve for return to service

Answer: (B)

Understanding who can approve a repair for return to service after maintenance is the concept being tested. A certificated mechanic with the appropriate rating can perform airframe work, including major repairs or major alterations. However, the authority to approve that work for return to service rests with someone who holds an Inspection Authorization (IA) or an FAA inspector, not with the mechanic who performed the major repair. For minor repairs or alterations, the mechanic who completed the work can approve return to service, but for major work, RTS approval must come from an IA or equivalent authority. This is why the statement is correct: the mechanic may carry out a major airframe repair or major alteration, but cannot sign off the return to service for that major work without IA involvement.