Plain English Meaning
A document the FAA gives an aircraft to say, 'this aircraft was built to an approved design and is safe to fly.' It stays valid as long as the aircraft keeps being maintained and inspected the right way.
Full Definition
An FAA-issued certificate (FAA Form 8100-2) authorizing the operation of an aircraft that has been type-certificated in the normal, utility, acrobatic, commuter, or transport category, or as a manned free balloon, and that conforms to its approved type design and is in a condition for safe operation. It remains in effect as long as the aircraft is properly maintained, inspected, and altered in accordance with the applicable regulations.
Context Anchor
Pilots encounter this term when checking required aircraft documents, renting or buying an , or confirming that an aircraft is legal to operate.