Final answer:
To record compliance with an airworthiness directive, a mechanic must document the date, AD number, aircraft details, description of the work, and their signature in the aircraft's maintenance records.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a mechanic handles an airworthiness directive (AD), compliance is typically recorded in the aircraft's maintenance records. This documentation usually includes the date of compliance, the AD number, the applicable aircraft and its registration number, a description of the work performed, and the signature of the authorized mechanic. The maintenance records serve as a legal log verifying that the directive was addressed and that the aircraft meets the safety requirements specified by the regulatory authority. It's essential for maintaining the airworthiness of the aircraft and for reference in any future maintenance or inspections.