DAFPD62-6 — Usaf Airworthiness

DAFPD62-6 governs how the Department of the Air Force establishes and maintains airworthiness throughout the life cycle of air systems.

Search DAFPD62-6

  • Publication number: DAFPD62-6
  • Title: USAF AIRWORTHINESS
  • Date: 2025-04-11

View DAFPD62-6 on armypubs.army.mil


DAFPD62-6 addresses airworthiness in air system design, production, operation, and maintenance. It requires airworthiness assessments and approvals before first DAF flight, with criteria, operating limits, and risk mitigation addressed.

Applies to: This publication applies to all civilian employees and uniformed members of the entire Department of the Air Force, and those with a contractual obligation to abide by the terms of DAF publications.

Topics covered

  • Airworthiness assessments
  • Airworthiness approvals
  • Air system design
  • Air system production
  • Air system operation
  • Air system maintenance
  • Airworthiness criteria
  • Risk mitigation

Questions and answers

What does DAF airworthiness cover across an air system’s lifecycle?

DAF airworthiness activities encompass the entire lifecycle management of DAF owned or contracted air systems, to include design, production, operation, and maintenance. (paragraph 1)

What must DAF-designed or DAF-modified air systems do before fielding?

Prior to fielding, DAF-designed or DAF-modified air systems shall substantially comply with their appropriate airworthiness criteria and therefore pose reduced risk to the warfighter and to the mission. (paragraph 2)

What must airworthiness assessments evaluate and define?

Conduct airworthiness assessments, when appropriate, to evaluate air system configurations, utilizing airworthiness criteria appropriate for the air system type and intended use, assess airworthiness risks, if present, and define operating limitations and other operating information necessary to ensure appropriately safe air systems. (paragraph 2)

What happens when a timely airworthiness assessment or approval is not feasible?

In cases where a timely airworthiness assessment or approval is not feasible, military commanders retain the prerogative to conduct missions while employing prudent risk mitigation measures. (paragraph 2)

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