Definition
The condition of an aircraft in which it conforms to its FAA-approved type design and is in a state safe for flight. Both elements must be true: the aircraft must match its certified design (no unapproved alterations or missing required equipment), and it must be in safe operating condition based on inspections, maintenance, and the absence of unresolved defects.
Plain English
An aircraft is airworthy when it still matches the design the FAA approved and is currently safe to fly. If either part is missing — for example, an unapproved modification, or an overdue inspection — it is not airworthy.
Context Anchor
Pilots encounter airworthiness during preflight inspection, maintenance record checks, aircraft certification, and decisions about whether an airplane may legally and safely be flown.
Derivation
From 'airworthy', built the same way as 'seaworthy'. 'Worthy' means fit or suitable for a purpose. So airworthy literally means 'fit for the air' — fit to fly safely.
Why Pilots Care
A pilot may not legally fly an aircraft that lacks airworthiness. Operating one can lead to accidents, enforcement action, or certificate suspension.
Grounding Statement
Airworthiness answers one basic question: is this aircraft legally approved and actually safe to fly right now?
Intuition Check
Airworthy does not just mean “capable of flying.” It means the aircraft meets required standards and is in safe condition for the flight.
Example Sentence 1
Before each flight, the pilot in command must determine that the aircraft is in an airworthy condition.
Example Sentence 2
After the annual inspection, the mechanic returned the aircraft to service only when it satisfied every airworthiness requirement.