Document ID:	MIL-HDBK-516       Scroll down to access document images

Overview

Title:  Airworthiness Certification Criteria Scope:  MIL-HDBK-516 establishes the AW criteria, defined as both the standard and its associated MoCs, to be used in the AW assessment of the design of all fixed-wing and rotary-wing air systems, whether manned or unmanned. This handbook defines a minimum set of criteria that only relate to AW and are verifiable by reproducible methods, independent of design approach. The DoW Component AW authorities use this foundational document to define an air system’s AW certification basis. The criteria focus on the ability of the air system to safely attain, sustain, and complete flight IAW approved usage limits, including the required interactions by crewmembers to operate the air system. The sections herein represent a minimal set of AW evaluation criteria; MIL-HDBK-516 is not a design guide and is not intended to establish a design specification. Rather, it is intended to provide a focused look at the minimal standards required for AW and is expected to be used in conjunction with other specifications, standards, and engineering to fully implement Operational Safety, Suitability, and Effectiveness (OSS&E). This handbook is for guidance only and cannot be cited as a requirement. Status:  Active Document Date:  29-MAY-2026         Next Review Due:  28-MAY-2031 FSC/Area:  SESS Doc Category:   Defense Handbook

Responsibilities

Lead Standardization Activity:  SE  Director, Systems Engineering     Preparing Activity: 11  Air Force Life Cycle Management Center - Aircraft Systems Coordination:  Full   Army Custodian:  AV   Combat Capabilities Development Command, Aviation and Missile Center   Navy Custodian:  AS   Naval Air Systems Command   Air Force Custodian:  11   Air Force Life Cycle Management Center - Aircraft Systems

Projects

Project Number:     SESS-2026-008

Changes to military standards or handbooks issued after August 1, 2003 are incorporated in the modified document.

Revision History

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