Definition
A repair to an aircraft, airframe, powerplant, propeller, appliance, or component part that is not classified as a major repair under 14 CFR Part 43. Minor repairs do not appreciably affect weight, balance, structural strength, performance, powerplant operation, flight characteristics, or other qualities affecting airworthiness, and can generally be returned to service by an appropriately rated mechanic without the additional inspection or paperwork required for major repairs.
Plain English
A repair to an aircraft that is small enough that it doesn't change how the airplane flies, how strong it is, or how the engine runs. It can be signed off by a regular mechanic without the extra approval steps a bigger repair would need.
Context Anchor
You will see this term in aircraft maintenance discussions, logbook entries, and FAA material explaining repairs and alterations.
Derivation
Minor comes from Latin meaning “smaller” or “lesser.” Repair comes from Latin roots meaning “to make ready again.” Together, the words point to a lesser kind of fix, but in aviation the classification is determined by FAA rules, not by how small the job feels.
Why Pilots Care
Determines whether the owner or a certified mechanic can perform and log the work, and whether additional FAA approval is needed.
Intuition Check
Do not read “minor” as “unimportant” or “no paperwork needed.” Here, “minor” means the repair is not a major repair under FAA maintenance rules.
Example Sentence 1
Replacing a worn seat belt was logged as a minor repair and signed off by the mechanic that afternoon.
Example Sentence 2
After a minor repair to a landing-gear fairing, the pilot confirmed no further approval was required before the next flight.