Who is authorized to approve the Return To Service?

The authorization to approve the Return To Service (RTS) generally resides with an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO). An AMO is certified to carry out maintenance on aircraft and has the authority to declare an aircraft safe and fit for flight after any maintenance or repair work is completed. This certification ensures that the AMO complies with aviation safety regulations and standards.

While other roles, such as licensed aeronautical engineers, licensed Aircraft Maintenance Specialists (AMS), and licensed commercial pilots, play significant roles in the aviation industry, they do not have the official authority to approve RTS unless they are operating within the framework of an AMO that allows them to do so under specific conditions. For instance, some engineers or pilots may be part of the maintenance process but cannot independently approve an RTS without the AMO's backing. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes the integral role of the AMO in maintaining aviation safety and regulation compliance.