The Principal Avionics Inspector (PAI) serves as the primary operations interface between assigned air carriers, air operators, air agencies, airmen, designees. and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Has program responsibility to assure that assigned organizations meet Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) with respect to operations programs governing all matters to general aviation avionics safety issues.
Duties
The Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI) receives administrative direction from management in terms of broadly defined missions or functions. The ASI, mostly independently plans, designs, and carries out programs, projects, studies, or other work. The ASI provides policy assistance to field level ASIs on difficult or complex policy interpretations. The work is normally accepted without change. Completed work may be reviewed for adherence to FAA policy and for assurance that project requirements have been fulfilled.
Some FG-14 assignments involve Service wide responsibility for application of expert knowledge of flight avionics for an advanced multi-engine turbojet aircraft. Such employees are concerned with all aspects of the operational capabilities and limitations of the aircraft.
ASIs at the FG-14 level establish technical procedures and performance indexes and review complete flight operations programs for leaders in the aviation industry, or organizations of comparable scope and complexity, or a uniquely complex group of general aviation organizations. Assignments at this level are of great scope and unusual complexity.
The following assignments are illustrative:
1. As a Service wide expert on a particular type of advanced aircraft:
- Advises other inspectors of major changes;
- Standardizes procedures and judgements used by inspectors to evaluate the operation of the aircraft;
- Evaluates new training methods and equipment for initial certification;
- Serves on boards that evaluate incidents, accidents, complaints, and other serious problems relating to the aircraft. Develops plans to resolve problems.
2. As the principal representative in regulatory surveillance of general aviation and air carrier activities, exercises certificate authority over operators with avionics. Evaluates maintenance activities and complete aircraft overhaul facilities.
3. Exercises certificate authority and safety responsibility over a complex of broad and varied general aviation organizations such as air taxis, executive and/or industrial operators, repair stations, and flight and mechanic schools. The magnitude, intensity, and scope of program responsibility are typically such as to require significant and regular assistance of lower graded inspectors.
FG-14 employees evaluate flight operations programs for organizations which utilize complex aircraft, systems, and equipment. Because of organizational complexity or the advanced technology incorporated in the aircraft, systems, and equipment, employees must exercise originality to resolve unique problems. They frequently rely on engineers and designers for specific technical guidance although much of their work is carried out under very broad policy guidelines. Supervisors give FG-14 employees a wide leeway for independent action. Other inspectors seek their advise on problems relating to aircraft and their operation and maintenance. because of the precedent-setting nature or substantial effect on the aviation industry or public safety, their decisions may be reviewed and approved at a higher policy-setting level.
The ASI plans and directs the use of time and resources to accomplish organizational objectives. He or she defines, organizes, and uses resources to accomplish work activities within established schedules, analyzes program requirements, and makes or directs adjustments as necessary to address organizational needs.
