James Paul Smith - Student Pilot, Mechanic

James Smith is an FAA-certified pilot and aircraft mechanic based in Birmingham, AL. James Paul Smith holds a Student Pilot certificate. A Student Pilot certificate authorizes the holder to fly solo under the supervision of a certificated flight instructor while training toward a higher certificate level. James holds an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate. An A&P certificate is the most comprehensive FAA mechanic certification, authorizing the holder to inspect, maintain, and repair both aircraft structures (fuselage, wings, control surfaces, landing gear) and engines (reciprocating, turbine, and turboprop powerplants). A&P mechanics are qualified to perform the broadest range of aircraft maintenance, including annual inspections when combined with an Inspection Authorization (IA). James Smith also holds an FAA Inspection Authorization (IA), the highest level of maintenance certification issued by the FAA. An IA authorizes the holder to perform annual inspections on aircraft, approve aircraft for return to service after major repairs or alterations, and supervise progressive inspection programs. Inspection Authorization holders must meet stringent experience requirements and pass annual refresher training to maintain their authorization. Their most recent FAA medical certificate is a Third Class medical, valid through October 2027. The FAA airman records for James Smith are tracked and verified by AviatorDB.