Definition
A manufacturer's maintenance publication that shows every part of an aircraft, engine, or component as a labeled exploded-view drawing, with each part keyed by number to a list giving its part number, description, and quantity. It is used by maintenance personnel to identify, order, and correctly install replacement parts.
Plain English
A picture-based parts catalog from the manufacturer. Each part is shown in a drawing with a number pointing to it, and a matching list tells you exactly what that part is and how to order it.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft maintenance manuals, parts catalogs, and service information when identifying or ordering parts.
Why Pilots Care
Correct use ensures only approved parts are installed, preserving airworthiness and preventing maintenance errors.
Analogy
Like the exploded diagrams in a furniture assembly manual, where every screw and bracket is numbered and matched to a parts list at the back.
Intuition Check
An Illustrated Parts List is not a repair procedure. It helps identify the correct part; the maintenance instructions explain how the work is done.
Example Sentence 1
The mechanic opened the Illustrated Parts List to find the correct part number for the nose gear shimmy damper before placing the order.
Example Sentence 2
Before ordering the new seal, the technician verified the quantity and callout in the Illustrated Parts List.