For how long must major repair records be retained for an aircraft's engine?

The retention period for major repair records for an aircraft's engine is not simply a short duration, making the selected answer less aligned with industry standards and regulations. The correct approach recognizes the critical importance of maintaining comprehensive records for the entire operational lifespan of the engine.

Records of major repairs must be retained for a significant time to ensure that any subsequent inspections, maintenance, or repairs can be properly informed by the engine's history. The guidance from the regulatory framework suggests that these records should be kept with the aircraft, allowing any involved parties to access vital information about its maintenance and compliance history as long as the engine is in operation.

This requirement ensures accountability and traceability, helping to preserve the safety and reliability of the aircraft over time. Records that explain past repairs, as well as compliance with airworthiness directives, are essential for maintaining regulatory adherence and operational safety. Therefore, retaining these records for the period that the aircraft is in operation is the most accurate and compliant option for ensuring all aspects of the engine's history are tracked and available for review.