Definition
A notice issued by an aircraft, engine, or component manufacturer that informs owners and operators of a recommended inspection, modification, or change to a product. Service Bulletins are not, by themselves, mandatory under FAA regulations, but they may become mandatory if the FAA references them in an Airworthiness Directive (AD).
Plain English
A formal notice from the manufacturer telling owners about a recommended fix, check, or change to an aircraft or part. It's advice from the maker, not an order from the FAA — unless the FAA later makes it required.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft maintenance records, manufacturer support documents, prebuy inspections, and discussions with mechanics about whether a known issue has been addressed.
Derivation
From 'service' (work done to maintain something) and 'bulletin' (a short official notice). The name reflects its purpose: an official notice from the manufacturer about servicing the product.
Why Pilots Care
Compliance may be required to keep the aircraft airworthy and legally operable under FAA regulations.
Intuition Check
Do not assume a Service Bulletin is just a casual newsletter. Also do not assume it is automatically mandatory; check whether a rule or FAA safety order requires it.
Example Sentence 1
The mechanic reviewed the latest Service Bulletin from the engine manufacturer and recommended replacing the affected fuel pump at the next inspection.
Example Sentence 2
The owner reviewed all open service bulletins during the pre-purchase inspection of the used airplane.