How long must Technical Logbooks be kept once they are full?

The requirement to retain Technical Logbooks until the aircraft is no longer registered is based on regulatory standards for the documentation and maintenance of aircraft. Keeping these logbooks serves several critical purposes: it provides a comprehensive maintenance history, proves compliance with airworthiness standards, and serves as an essential record for any future transactions or inspections involving the aircraft.

When an aircraft is no longer registered, it signifies that the aircraft is effectively taken out of service and may no longer be operated. At this point, the need to retain such records diminishes because the aircraft's operational history is no longer relevant to active aviation standards. However, holding onto the logbooks until that point ensures that all necessary documentation is available for investigation or inquiries that may arise even after the aircraft is deregistered.

This retention policy is essential for maintaining safety and accountability within the aviation industry, ensuring that all aircraft maintenance records are accurately documented and available throughout the aircraft's lifecycle.