What is the primary focus of Part M in aviation regulations?

The primary focus of Part M in aviation regulations is on continuing airworthiness. This part of the regulations outlines the responsibilities and requirements that maintainers, operators, and other stakeholders must adhere to in order to ensure that aircraft remain airworthy throughout their operational life. Continuing airworthiness encompasses various aspects such as ensuring that an aircraft's maintenance is performed in accordance with approved procedures, that any necessary inspections are carried out, and that appropriate records are maintained.

The essence of continuing airworthiness is to establish a systematic approach to monitoring the condition of the aircraft and to identify and rectify any issues that may arise over time. This is crucial for safety in aviation, as it protects against potential failures and ensures regulatory compliance.

The other options, while related, do not capture the full intent of Part M. For instance, while maintenance procedures and maintaining airworthiness are important, they do not comprehensively address the ongoing responsibilities related to airworthiness throughout an aircraft's lifecycle, which is the core of continuing airworthiness. Continuing procedures, although relevant to operational practices or maintenance, is not specific enough to encompass all aspects of Part M's focus.