Implementing the Maintenance Provisions of Bilateral Agreements

This rule amends the regulations governing maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations performed on U.S. aeronautical products by certain Canadian persons. The amendment removes specific regulatory references and other requirements unique to that work when performed in Canada. The United States and Canada have entered into an international agreement called a Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) that is in line with BASAs negotiated with other countries. The FAA and Canada are negotiating Maintenance Implementation Procedures (MIP) to accompany the BASA. The current rule contains specific regulatory language that constrains developing a standardized MIP. The MIP will require compliance with the applicable Canadian regulations plus special conditions that will ensure a level of safety equivalent to that provided by the FAA's regulations. This action is necessary for the MIP to proceed.