What type of repairs can an Authorized Release Certificate document?

An Authorized Release Certificate, commonly referred to as a Form 8130-3, is a critical document in the aviation industry used to indicate that a product has been inspected and meets the necessary airworthiness standards. It is used to document major repairs and alterations performed on aeronautical products. Major repairs generally refer to significant changes or fixes to an aircraft that may affect its structural integrity, performance, or operational capability, while major alterations denote modifications that alter the aircraft's original design and could impact safety or performance.

The use of the Authorized Release Certificate in this context ensures that all major work is adequately documented and meets regulatory standards, enhancing safety and compliance in aviation maintenance. This certification allows for the approval of the work completed, therefore ensuring that the aircraft is safe for flight and meets all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations or equivalent requirements from other aviation authorities.

Considering this, options like cosmetic repairs, routine maintenance, or minor alterations do not typically require an Authorized Release Certificate because they either do not significantly affect the aircraft's operational capabilities or fall under the more straightforward maintenance and alteration procedures that do not necessitate such extensive documentation. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the scope of the Authorized Release Certificate in documenting significant work that is vital for maintaining airworthiness.