What should you do if you discover your aircraft has exceeded the time for an FAA Airworthiness Directive?

If you discover that your aircraft has exceeded the time for an FAA Airworthiness Directive (AD), the appropriate course of action is to perform the AD immediately and report it to the FAA. Compliance with ADs is mandatory, as they are issued to address safety concerns, prevent accidents, and enhance the airworthiness of an aircraft. These directives may include necessary inspections, modifications, or operational limitations that must be adhered to ensure the aircraft remains safe for flight.

Performing the AD as soon as it is discovered that it has not been completed or complied with is crucial because delaying compliance can lead to unsafe conditions or potential regulatory penalties. Reporting to the FAA after performing the AD ensures that they are informed about the corrective actions taken, which helps uphold aviation safety standards.

On the other hand, taking no action could endanger the safety of the operation and lead to severe liability issues, while waiting for scheduled maintenance or notifying the FAA after the next flight does not address the immediate compliance need. These alternatives do not fulfill the obligation of ensuring that the aircraft is airworthy as per the FAA requirements.