Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with all pertinent Airworthiness Directives (AD’s)?

The aircraft owner holds the primary responsibility for ensuring compliance with all pertinent Airworthiness Directives (ADs). ADs are legally enforceable regulations issued by the FAA when it is determined that a particular issue affects the safety of an aircraft. These regulations require owners to take specific actions to correct or mitigate the identified problem.

While the FAA sets these directives, it is up to the aircraft owner to stay informed about any changes and to ensure that their aircraft is in compliance. This includes performing necessary maintenance or modifications as outlined in the ADs. It's essential for owners to regularly review the FAA's AD list, as failing to comply can lead to safety issues and potential legal ramifications.

Though the pilot in command is responsible for the safety of the flight and the readiness of the aircraft at the time of the flight, the ongoing responsibility for AD compliance lies with the aircraft owner. The manufacturer may provide instructions and recommendations, but ultimately it is the owner who must enforce compliance with the ADs through appropriate actions.