Aircraft Maintenance Records Analysis

Maintenance records are frequently the most consequential evidence in an aviation case, and the most often misread. Logbook entries, FAA Form 337 major repair and alteration records, airworthiness directive compliance, and inspection sign-offs establish what was done to an aircraft, by whom, under what authority, and whether the work conformed to manufacturer instructions and the Federal Aviation Regulations.

Scope of Analysis

Mr. Rexwinkle conducts forensic examination of aircraft maintenance records to determine whether maintenance, repairs, or alterations contributed to a mechanical failure sequence. This work routinely includes:

•          Reconstruction of an aircraft’s maintenance history from logbooks, work orders, and invoices

•          Evaluation of major repairs and alterations, including FAA Form 337 documentation and approved supporting data

•          Airworthiness directive and service bulletin compliance review

•          Assessment of inspection scope and sign-off authority, including annual, 100-hour, and progressive inspections

•          Analysis of parts traceability, including PMA, STC, and owner-produced parts

•          Determination of whether work performed conformed to manufacturer maintenance manuals and 14 CFR Part 43

•          Identification of gaps, discrepancies, or reconstructions within the record itself

Analysis by a Mechanic, Not Only a Pilot

Most aviation experts approach maintenance records from an operational perspective. Mr. Rexwinkle holds an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate with Inspection Authorization, the credential that permits a mechanic to approve an aircraft for return to service following a major repair or alteration and to conduct annual inspections. He has maintained single-engine and multi-engine piston aircraft, turboprops, business jets, and helicopters, and has performed the same inspections and sign-offs that appear in the records under examination.

That distinction carries weight on cross-examination. An opinion about whether a maintenance action met the applicable standard rests on having performed the work, not solely on having read about it.

Experience

Mr. Rexwinkle has investigated more than 300 aviation mishaps and authored over 100 expert reports and technical memoranda since 2008. He has testified in deposition and at trial and accepts engagements from both plaintiff and defense counsel nationwide.

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