Plain English Meaning

Scheduled checks of an aircraft to make sure it is safe and legal to fly. Some are done before every flight, some every 12 months, and others after a set number of flight hours or for specific equipment.

Full Definition

The required examinations of an aircraft and its components, performed at specified intervals or events, to verify continued airworthiness in accordance with the regulations under which the aircraft is operated. Inspections include those required by 14 CFR Part 91 (such as annual, 100-hour, preflight, altimeter/pitot-static, transponder, and ELT inspections) and any additional inspections mandated by Airworthiness Directives or the manufacturer's maintenance program.

Context Anchor

You will see this term in , , and discussions about whether an aircraft is allowed to fly before a flight.