What happens to the Certificate of Registration if the owner loses possession of the aircraft?

When an aircraft owner loses possession of their aircraft, the Certificate of Registration expires immediately. This is because the registration of the aircraft is tied to the ownership and possession of that specific aircraft. The certificate signifies that the individual or entity listed as the owner is legally responsible for the aircraft. When possession is lost, typically through sale, theft, or decommissioning, the original registration is no longer valid.

This principle ensures that only the current owner has legal rights associated with the aircraft, including responsibilities such as maintenance, operation, and insurance. If the aircraft is sold to a new owner, they must apply for a new Certificate of Registration in their name to ensure proper legal standing. Therefore, the immediate expiration protects all parties involved, including regulatory authorities, ensuring that records of ownership reflect the current situation accurately.