Starting an FAA-approved repair station requires a thorough understanding of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and a significant investment of time, money, and resources:

1. Determine the type of repair station: The FAA categorizes repair stations into different types, including:
   1. Airframe (14 CFR Part 145)
   2. Powerplant (14 CFR Part 145)
   3. Propeller (14 CFR Part 145)
   4. Instrument (14 CFR Part 145)
   5. Radio (14 CFR Part 145)
   6. Accessory (14 CFR Part 145)
2. Meet the basic requirements:
   1. Have a physical location in the United States or a U.S. territory
   2. Have a minimum of two years of experience in the type of repair station you want to start
   3. Have a qualified personnel with the necessary expertise and certifications
   4. Have the necessary equipment, tools, and facilities to perform the work
3. Develop a repair station manual: Create a comprehensive manual that outlines your repair station's policies, procedures, and quality control processes. The manual should include:
   1. Organization and management structure
   2. Quality control procedures
   3. Inspection and testing procedures
   4. Record-keeping and documentation procedures
   5. Training and personnel qualification procedures
4. Obtain the necessary insurance: You'll need to have liability insurance that meets the FAA's requirements.
5. Submit an application: Fill out the FAA Form 8310-3, Application for Repair Station Certificate, and submit it to the FAA along with the required documentation, including:
   1. Repair station manual
   2. Insurance certificate
   3. Proof of experience and qualifications
   4. Description of facilities and equipment
6. Pay the application fee: The current fee is $100, but this may change, so check with the FAA for the latest information.
7. Wait for FAA review and inspection: The FAA will review your application and schedule an inspection to verify that your repair station meets the regulatory requirements.
8. Pass the inspection: The FAA inspector will evaluate your repair station's facilities, equipment, and procedures to ensure compliance with the regulations. You must pass this inspection to receive your repair station certificate.
9. Maintain certification: Once you've received your certificate, you'll need to maintain it by:
   1. Following the procedures outlined in your repair station manual
   2. Performing regular audits and inspections
   3. Updating your manual and procedures as necessary
   4. Notifying the FAA of any changes to your repair station
10. Renew your certificate: Your repair station certificate is valid for a limited time (usually 5 years). You'll need to renew it by submitting a new application and paying the required fee.

Additional tips:

• Consult with an FAA expert or a qualified aviation consultant to ensure you're meeting all the requirements.
• Develop a comprehensive quality control process to ensure compliance with the regulations.
• Invest in the necessary equipment, tools, and facilities to perform the work.
• Hire qualified personnel with the necessary expertise and certifications.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and industry developments.

Resources:

• FAA website
• FAA Form 8310-3
• 14 CFR Part 145
• FAA repair station guidance