The Aviation Source Approval and Management Handbook, dated March 16, 2011, outlines policies and procedures for approving sources for aviation parts, particularly Critical Safety Items (CSIs). Developed under the Joint Aeronautical Commanders’ Group (JACG), it ensures that suppliers consistently produce high-quality, conforming items. The handbook details various source types considered for approval, including prime contractors, OEMs, licensed manufacturers, and distributors. It also addresses the management of CSIs from unapproved sources, source reciprocity among military Services, and the role of control drawings and historical sources. Additionally, it covers local purchase and repair, government manufacture of CSIs, and the use of surplus materials. The document distinguishes between reverse engineering (replicating an item) and reengineering (creating a new design) and discusses Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) sources. Chapters 2 and 3 outline procuring activity responsibilities and the Source Approval Request (SAR) process, including risk management, SAR development, and technical review across engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance aspects, emphasizing rigorous evaluation to ensure safety and quality in aviation procurement.