Definition
A specific paragraph within Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 23, that establishes the airworthiness standards for normal category airplanes by sorting them into certification levels based on maximum seating capacity and maximum operating speed. Subsection (a) sets out the four certification levels used to scale the certification requirements appropriately to the size and performance of the airplane.
Plain English
A rule in the FAA's small airplane certification regulations that places normal category airplanes into one of four levels based on how many seats they have and how fast they fly. The level then determines which certification requirements apply.
Context Anchor
You may see this citation in FAA handbooks, aircraft certification discussions, or training material explaining how small airplanes are categorized under FAA rules.
Derivation
Section' refers to a numbered paragraph within the Code of Federal Regulations. The numbering convention '23.2005' identifies Part 23 (small airplane airworthiness standards), section 2005. The '(a)' identifies the first lettered subsection within that section.
Why Pilots Care
It determines whether a light general aviation airplane qualifies for normal category certification, which directly affects its approved design standards and operating limitations.
Intuition Check
Do not read “section 23.2005(a)” as an aircraft part or cockpit item. It is a legal reference to one exact paragraph in the FAA rules.
Example Sentence 1
The new four-seat trainer was certified under the standards laid out in section 23.2005(a) for a Level 1 airplane.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot reviewed the type certificate data sheet to verify the airplane fell within the criteria of section 23.2005(a).