Need Clarification Regarding Registration Number Size Options

[Matthew P]

Aircraft currently in paint, wanting to go back to original size (smaller) registration number as opposed to 12". As I'm reading through the FARs it seems to indicate in one section that, due to the age of my aircraft, I can have the smaller registration numbers, but then the next section seems to say that retaining the smaller registration numbers don't apply IF I have the aircraft repainted....can anyone provide clarification. Primarily want the smaller registration numbers so it doesn't interfere with the paint scheme I'm wanting to go with, and I figure if I fly to the Bahamas, I'll buy some temporary 12" vinyl Numbers.

 

TIA

 

Matt

[Hank]

I can't give FAR references, but I think the smaller N number can be painted on airplanes 30 or more years old. But as you pointed out, the small numbers are not valid for cross-border travel.

The regs apparently allowed smaller numbers at some point, and when the large numbers became required, the small numbers were grandfathered in until the plane was painted. Now us Vintage Mooney owners have a choice! 

[Matthew P]

33 minutes ago, Hank said:

I can't give FAR references, but I think the smaller N number can be painted on airplanes 30 or more years old. But as you pointed out, the small numbers are not valid for cross-border travel.

The regs apparently allowed smaller numbers at some point, and when the large numbers became required, the small numbers were grandfathered in until the plane was painted. Now us Vintage Mooney owners have a choice! 

LOL, so are you saying that you believe that my 60 year old M20E has the option....I'm (unfortunately) thinking that once it goes into paint, regardless of age, that I'm stuck with the 12" Registration....wonder if they'd ever make an issue over it.. Unfortunately I'm not an original paint scheme or it probably wouldn't even be noticed....

 

§ 45.29 Size of marks.

(b) Height. Except as provided in paragraph (h) of this part, the nationality and registration marks must be of equal height and on-

(1) Fixed-wing aircraft, must be at least 12 inches high, except that:

(i) An aircraft displaying marks at least 2 inches high before November 1, 1981 and an aircraft manufactured after November 2, 1981, but before January 1, 1983, may display those marks until the aircraft is repainted or the marks are repainted, restored, or changed;

Edited 2 hours ago by Matthew P

[Hank]

@Matthew P, you made me look it up.

Ref. 14 CFR Part 45.22(b), shown below (highlighting added for clarity):

Isn't it great when clearly-written paragraphs seem to conflict with each other? That's when you need to read back to the beginning the section for background and context. Your 1966 E can certainly use the small numbers on either the side or the tail, but you need large numbers to cross the border. 

[Matthew P]

Thanks, that's the one that led me to believe that it would be ok...and the one that I'd like to rely upon...I appreciate your time and assistance.

 

Merry Christmas

 

matt

[cliffy]

Why not a call to the local FSDO to avoid any future confusion?