As an IA, what should you do if an aircraft does not have an N number but the owner will not be flying it?

In this scenario, the appropriate action as an Inspection Authorization (IA) is to approve the aircraft for return to service if the owner does not intend to fly it and if it meets the necessary safety and regulatory standards. Signing off an aircraft typically indicates that it has been found airworthy and is in compliance with all regulations.

The key factor here is that the owner’s intention of not flying the aircraft does not inherently render it unworthy. If the aircraft passes inspection and adheres to all required maintenance protocols, it may still be safe for other potential uses or to remain in compliance with storage and maintenance requirements. This means that as the IA, you would document the condition of the aircraft accurately, and if it meets all the requisite criteria, it can be approved for return to service.

Since the aircraft does not have an N number, which may reflect that it is not registered, it is still essential to ensure that the aircraft is maintained according to regulatory requirements until it is officially registered, if that is the goal of the owner later on.