In aviation, the term “Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn” is frequently encountered and plays a crucial role in the identification and tracking of individual aircraft. The abbreviation “cn” refers to the certification number, synonymous with the manufacturer’s serial number (msn). This unique identifier is assigned to an aircraft during its production and remains a constant reference throughout its lifecycle. Understanding the significance and application of the Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn is essential for aviation professionals, enthusiasts, and regulatory authorities alike.
The Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn differs from the tail number or registration number, as it does not change over the aircraft’s operational life, unlike registration numbers which might change if the aircraft is sold internationally. The cn or msn is assigned sequentially by the manufacturer, such as Boeing or Airbus, and helps in keeping detailed records related to airworthiness, maintenance history, and manufacturing details. This article delves into the technical aspects of Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn and its importance in the broader context of aviation.
Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn: Definition and Importance
The Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn, often simply called the construction number or manufacturer serial number, is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned to an aircraft by the manufacturing company. This numbering begins when the aircraft’s production initiates and is fixed for the life of the airframe. In most cases, the cn and msn serve interchangeable roles in aviation documentation, enabling precise identification of every component, modification, and repair associated with the airframe. For example, a Boeing 747’s msn might be listed as 12345, indicating it is the 12,345th airframe produced by Boeing.
This number is especially important because it assists regulatory agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), in tracking the airworthiness and conformity of an aircraft. Aircraft certification processes leverage the cn to verify compliance with manufacturing standards and to maintain safety records throughout the aircraft’s operational timeline. Additionally, the Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn is utilized in logistics, fleet management, and accident investigations.
How the Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn is Assigned and Used
The assignment of the Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn follows a manufacturing sequence. When an aircraft manufacturer approves the commencement of the aircraft’s construction, a unique number is assigned. This number remains embedded in the aircraft’s structure, typically located in the airframe’s data plate along with the model type and serial data. For commercial airliners like the Airbus A320 family, serial numbers can range upwards of 10,000, where each msns provides essential tracking data for production batches.
Operationally, airlines and maintenance crews use the Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn to track the maintenance schedules and upgrades of each individual aircraft. Maintenance logs, including inspections mandated by aviation authorities such as the 12-year heavy checks or the 6,000-flight cycle maintenance inspections, are logged against the cn. Additionally, the Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn simplifies the management of airframes for secondary sales, lease transfers, and regulatory compliance checks. For example, when an airline sells a unit of its fleet, the cn/msn along with records of its history becomes critical for valuation and airworthiness transfer.
Technical Details and Standards Related to Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn
The Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn follows stringent standards defined by the aviation authorities and manufacturing protocols. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recommends standardized documentation where msns should be traceable and accessible in centralized databases to facilitate global air traffic and maintenance safety. These serial numbers typically integrate into aircraft databases such as the FAA’s Registry database or the European EASA Type Certificate Data Sheets.
Each Aircraft Certification number C/N = msn is marked durably on structural components using stainless steel data plates, stamped metal tags, or laser etching to prevent tampering or wear over time. Moreover, manufacturers use the cn/msn to relate an aircraft’s type certification data (TC) and production certification data (PC), making it easier to monitor any deviations from the approved type design. With advanced manufacturing techniques, the serial number also plays a role in integrating digital maintenance tracking and electronic logbooks, ensuring real-time data accuracy.
For more detailed information on aircraft certification and documentation standards, you may visit the official FAA Aircraft Certification webpage.