William Moran
Control Mechanisms One example for a control mechanism in an aircraft maintenance facility and within the entire field of maintaining aircraft is detailed annotation of all work performed. This data is compiled into a logbook which stays with the aircraft for the duration of its service life. Another practice that is performed to mitigate risks during flight is part traceability. This way if a defective part fails on an aircraft it can be discovered how and why this anomaly occurred. The control mechanisms are put in place by the Federal Aviation Administration and set forth in the FAR/AMT (Federal Aviation Regulations/Aviation Maintenance Technician) in great detail. It is up to the individual Aviation Maintenance Technician Airframe and Power plant mechanic to adhere to and enforce these regulations. In addition partial responsibility lies upon the owner/operator of such aircraft to ensure these guidelines are met. Largely these controls are definitely respected and adhered to as any deviation from them is punishable by federal law. These are laws in every sense of the word. Unfortunately there are some people who may wish to make a “quick buck” by bending or breaking these regulations. They are often caught up with, yet occasionally some slip through the cracks. The greatest and most obvious benefit of these control mechanisms is that it ensures the safety of the pilots and passengers whom utilize these aircraft. The FAR/AMT Part 43.12 b also describes acceptable maintenance practices. These are a great tool to use when making a repair and having FAA approved data to reference. On the downside, it does cost a great deal of money to enforce these regulations. FAA inspectors are heavily loaded with the amount of area which they are responsible for. Also, it costs the operators of maintenance facilities a great deal of money to perform tasks to such scope and detail and still make a comfortable profit. All in all, these regulations boil down to safety, and that is what counts at 33,000 feet.

References
FAA (2013) FAR/AMT 2013: Federal Aviation Regulations for Aviation Maintenance Technicians