Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What type of inspection must an aircraft undergo annually?

1. 100-hour inspection

2. Annual inspection

3. Periodic maintenance inspection

4. Operational safety inspection

The correct answer is: Annual inspection

The annual inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of the aircraft's condition and compliance with regulatory standards. This inspection is mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for all civil aircraft and must be performed at least once every 12 calendar months. The purpose of the annual inspection is to ensure that the aircraft is airworthy and that all systems are functioning correctly, thereby enhancing safety for both the pilot and passengers. An annual inspection involves a thorough examination of critical components such as the engine, airframe, and flight controls, as well as a detailed review of the maintenance log entries to confirm that all required procedures and repairs have been completed. This inspection differs from a 100-hour inspection, which is specific for aircraft used for hire and not applicable to non-commercial operations. Periodic maintenance inspections and operational safety inspections, while important, do not replace the annual requirement established by FAA regulations.