MARAP
What is MARAP?
MARAP stands for Modification and Repair Approval Process. MARAP is an approved design and engineering review that allows for the Modification, design change and repair of RAAus type certified and accepted aircraft. MARAP is a process that’s handled in house at RAAus Tech and is similar to the CASA Subpart 21M engineering orders.
Why was MARAP created?
MARAP was created to allow owners of type certified aircraft to make approved modifications in order to continue to operate.
Examples of modifications include different engines, propellers and increases in Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW).Aircraft that have been accepted under a NAA or contacting state type certificate. This will help aircraft such as Thrusters, Drifters, Lightwing, Jabiru, CT, Gazelles and many others of our early legacy or heritage aircraft.
NOTE: RAAus aircraft with the registration prefix of 24,25 or 55 may be eligible to apply for a MARAP.Can I use my aircraft in a flying school after a MARAP process?
Yes – In most cases.
After a full review and compliance with the restriction and testing the aircraft, it will revert to its full certification after the MARAP process is completed.
For example: Let’s assume you want to fit a Gazelle with a Bolly propeller. You need to go through the MARAP process. Once MARAP is completed you could use this aircraft for hire or reward in a flight training school.How Does MARAP work?
PRIOR to making any modifications to an aircraft a member must submit an application to Recreational Aviation Australia using Tech Form 014.
The member must also provide a completed aircraft condition report (ACR- TECH Form 013) completed by a suitably qualified Recreational Aviation Australia L2 privilege holder.List of completed MARAP’s available to apply for:
| Make | Model | Title |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Design | CTLS | Modification of RH rudder and joystick controls |
| Aeronca | 7AC | Installation of T3 Tailwheel Suspension System |
| Aeronca | 7AC | Electrical System Upgrade |
| Flylight | Dragonfly | Replacement of Bailey 150 Engine with Corsair M25Y |
| Austflight | Drifter | Landing Gear Tyre Rim and Brake Replacement |
| Austflight | Drifter | Rib Replacement |
| Austflight | Drifter | Installation of Bolly Optima Series III Propeller |
| Austflight | Drifter | Replacement of a Rotax 582 with a Rotax 912 and increase of the MTOW to 450 kg |
| Austflight | Drifter | Engine replacement - Simonini (100HP 2 Stroke) and MTOW Increase to 450Kg |
| Flight Design | CTLS | Main wheel, tyre and brake change |
| Aeroprakt | A22 | MTOW Increase |
| Aeroprakt | A22 | Avionics Upgrade |
| Howard Hughes | Lightwing | Alternate engine mount |
| Jabiru | J160C | Installation of a Rotax engine and Bolly propeller |
| Type certified | As applicable | ROTAX TBO Extension |
| Initiative Industriali Italiane S.P.A | Sky Arrow | Installation of Bolly Optima III Propeller |
| Initiative Industriali Italiane S.P.A | Sky Arrow | Engine Change: Rotax 912S to Rotax 912ULS. |
| Skyfox | Gazelle CA25N | Approval of Alternate Flight Controls |
| Skyfox | Gazelle CA25N | Installation of Landing Lights to Nosewheel Landing Gear |
| Skyfox | Gazelle CA25N | Garmin G5 Installation |
| Skyfox | Gazelle CA25N | Aileron Hanger Repair |
| Skyfox | Gazelle CA25N | Approval for the installation of Bolly Optima series, 3 blade, 66” diameter propeller onto Skyfox Gazelle CA-25N Ultralight Aircraft |
What if the aircraft modification is not on the approved list?
If you are seeking approval of a modification that is not already included in the list above, please apply using Tech Form 014.
The Head of Airworthiness and Maintenance or assistant (HAM or AHAM) will review the application and make the initial decision to accept or refuse the application based on the information supplied. The application with all supporting documentation will then be forwarded to a CASA sub-part 21.M approved person for assessment. If approved, the applicant will be notified in writing that the proposed modification / repair is approved subject to any conditions deemed necessary or required by the sub-part 21M approved person.
The applicant will also be advised that the aircraft is not to be flown until an Experimental Research and Development Certificate has been issued or as otherwise advised. In some cases, the need for testing or a temporary Experimental Certificate may not be required. Entries to the aircraft logbooks must contain details of the aircraft’s modification or repair.
Can the MARAP process be applied to Light Sport Aircraft?
No - Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) have airworthiness compliance completed by the manufacturer. Any additional works or modifications are therefore required to have approval in writing from the manufacturer. The LSA manufacturer is totally responsible for the ongoing airworthiness of a LSA aircraft. If the LSA manufacturer is not willing to provide a letter of Authority (LOA) an experimental certificate may be able to be issued to approve the modification. This however, will mean that the aircraft is not able to be used for hire or reward.
Would the MARAP process work on my Experimental Light Sport Aircraft?
No – The aircraft needs to be issued with an experimental Certificate of Airworthiness (Experimental C of A). Call RAAus or CASA to discuss this matter.
Can the MARAP process work on my Amateur built aircraft?
No – Refer to section 6.1 – 7. Modifications to Amateur Built Aircraft
How much does a MARAP cost?
MARAP is $770, such as the installation of a Bolly propeller to a 24 registered Gazelle. If the approval applies to a once-off MARAP then cost may be significantly more, depending on the complexity of the MARAP approval.
Recreational Aviation Australia is committed to keeping costs to a minimum for our membership.
Want more information?
For more information or to enquire about the MARAP Approval process, please email tech@raaus.com.au or phone 02 6280 4700