Ep.11: Understanding the FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) Role with Gina Trussell
In this episode, we talk with Gina Trussell, an FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR – Maintenance), about her career path and the critical role DARs play in aircraft certification and oversight. Gina shares her journey into aviation and explains what it means to be a DAR, including how to become one, what authorization codes mean, and how DARs support aircraft import/export, modifications, and certifications. We also talk about DAR business models, liability, regulatory challenges, and how FAA oversight connects to international operations. Whether you’re in aircraft maintenance, management, or regulatory compliance, this conversation offers practical guidance on working with DARs, navigating import/export certifications, and understanding how FAA oversight connects to global operations.
About Gina Trussell
Gina is the President and Founder of International Aviation 360 (IA-360). Under her experienced leadership, IA-360 has assembled a comprehensive team of aviation professionals delivering nationwide services. With over three decades of industry experience and global relationships built across six continents, Gina leads a certified team providing complete aviation solutions — from DAR services to aircraft procurement and everything in between. Her background spans FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR), A&P Mechanic/Inspector Certification, and Technical Representative Authorization. Based in Atlanta, Gina has served as a DAR since 2011 and continues to play a key role in advancing safety and compliance throughout the aviation industry.
Chapters
00.00 - How Gina started her career in aviation and became a DAR – Maintenance
04:23 - What is a DAR
05:51 – DAR Functions Codes
08:50 – How to become a DAR
15:50 – DAR authorization validity across States
16:47 – Business model as a DAR and conflict of interest
20:00 – DAR Liability and indemnification
22:40 – DAR – F (Certification)
23: 40 – DAR Geographic expansion to other regions inside the U.S.
25:38 – The application process review
35:24 – Import / Export C of A & Bilateral
39:26 – STC Familiarization, modification, and FAA Alterations
47:12 – Private & Commercial Operations management and review
55:55 – How rejected applications are managed
56:21 – Organizational non-compliances and audits
01:07:29 – What are the challenges for a DAR
01:09:36 – How aviation is going to evolve and the manpower shortage
01:13:52 - Closing notes and Contact Info
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DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.
