The FAA has started sending out its notice of “Expiration of Aircraft Registration” forms to aircraft owners. In addition to my article on the subject, Understanding The FAA’s New Aircraft Re-Registration And Renewal Requirements, both AOPA and EAA provide additional information and guidance for completing the re-registration/renewal process. EAA has created a Guide To The New FAA Re-Registration Form. AOPA has a page reporting an October 12, 2010 clarification by the FAA regarding the re-registration/renewal process.
According to the clarification, once an aircraft’s registration has been renewed, the new certificate will expire three years from the month in which re-registration was accomplished. For example, aircraft owners whose aircraft were originally registered within the month of March in a previous year are currently receiving the re-registration forms from the FAA. Their aircraft registration certificates will expire on March 31, 2011 unless renewed. If one of these aircraft owners renews in December, for instance, the expiration date for their aircraft’s new three-year registration will be December 31, 2013.
Remember, like it or not, re-registration/renewal is mandatory. If you fail to renew your aircraft’s registration by the specified deadline, you will not be able to legally operate your aircraft after that deadline. When you receive your re-registration form, complete the renewal process promptly to ensure that you receive your new registration before the expiration of your current registration. If you need help with or have questions about the re-registration/renewal process, please contact the Reigel Law Firm at (952) 238-1060.
