Aircraft inspections are required by the FAA to ensure that the crafts meet minimum requirements and can be safely operated. Everyone who owns or operates an aircraft should understand what the inspection requirements are and what to expect. Use the guide below to learn the basics of this process.

What to Know About Aircraft Inspections

How to Know Your Requirements

Your inspection requirements will vary depending on what you use your aircraft for. Most require a full annual inspection, which should be completed and endorsed by a mechanic with an inspection authorization or certificate. An aircraft that is available for hire or used for hired flight instruction requires an inspection every 100 hours of flight (called the 100-hour inspection).

Progressive inspections are recommended for aircrafts with high usages, such as those used by flight schools or corporate flight departments. This does require permission from the FAA to do so. This process uses shorter, but more frequent, inspection phases. It complies with the 100-hour and annual inspections, and they are easier to keep up with since the process is shorter and requires less downtime for the aircraft.

What to Expect

An inspection will typically involve checking systems, such as the altimeter, static system, Mode C system, transponders, and emergency locator transmitter. They will check that the proper maintenance has been done.

Some inspections may require disassembling the aircraft components or specialized inspection aids. These make it possible to inspect interior components without disassembly. For example, a borescope is an eyepiece attached to a small flexible tube for looking inside components. All inspections will need to be thoroughly recorded in the aircraft log.

AVMATS  is the industry-leading aircraft maintenance and repair service for pilots in O-Fallon, MO, and St. Louis County. Their skilled technicians can conduct your aircraft inspections on your schedule and handle any repairs at cost-effective prices. They also have a wide range of aircraft parts and accessories from top manufacturers with worldwide distribution available. Contact their avionics team online or at (636) 812-3224 for more information.