Guide to Aircraft Inspections to Ensure Flight Safety
Every aircraft must undergo many different types of inspections to make sure everything is up, and working, eliminating any possibility that could cause any damage when in the air.
Aircraft inspections are critical when it comes to their safety and airworthiness. Regular checks and maintenance help identify potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring both passengers and crew can fly safely. Aircraft inspection involves various types of procedures, each with its own set of requirements, and follows strict guidelines set by regulatory bodies to ensure that every plane remains in top condition.
What is Aircraft Inspections
An aircraft inspection refers to a comprehensive process that checks different components of an aircraft to keep its airworthiness in line. These inspections cover everything from the structural integrity of the plane to the functionality of its systems, ensuring that every part is working as it should. Aircraft inspection requirements are established by aviation authorities, like the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), which specify the types and frequency of inspections for different models of aircraft.
Simply, the goal of an inspection is not only to identify and fix defects but also to certify that the plane can safely carry out its operations for a certain period before the next scheduled check. This must be a consistent process to make sure the inspections don’t go out of date and become invalid.
Importance of Aircraft Inspections
Regular aircraft inspection means ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with aviation regulations. It helps identify and fix potential issues before they can lead to a safety hazard. This process involves checking critical components such as the landing gear, engines, avionics, and control surfaces. Even when the smallest issue is detected during an inspection, it gives the chance for engineers to identify it and fix it before these minor defects could lead to major system failures that require expensive repairs or even complete part replacements.
Every aircraft must follow strict safety regulations to maintain its certification. Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines or grounding of the aircraft. At the same time, regular maintenance and timely repairs can significantly extend the lifespan of an aircraft. A well-maintained aircraft can operate safely for decades, whereas ones that lack consistent inspections may need to be retired sooner than their lifespan.
Also read: Life Cycle of an Aircraft: Its Phases and Importance to Safety
Types of Aircraft Inspections
There are several types of aircraft inspections, each with its specific procedures and checklists. The two most common types are the annual inspection and the 100-hour inspection, but there are many more specialized inspections based on the aircraft’s usage and condition.
1. Annual Inspection
An annual inspection is required for all general aviation aircraft once a year, regardless of how many hours the aircraft has flown. It is a thorough inspection that covers all the essential systems of the aircraft. The inspection must be conducted by a certified aircraft mechanic or an authorized inspector, and the aircraft cannot fly unless it passes the inspection.
2. 100-Hour Inspection
The 100-hour inspection is required for aircraft that are used for hire or flight instruction. Unlike the annual inspection, the 100-hour check is based on flight time rather than calendar time. Like the annual inspection, it covers all the major systems and must be carried out by a qualified mechanic. Aircraft that exceed 100 hours between inspections cannot operate commercially until they pass the required checks.
3. Pre-Flight Inspection
The pilot performs a pre-flight inspection before every flight. While not as detailed as an annual or 100-hour inspection, it involves visually checking key components such as the control surfaces, fuel levels, tyres, and brakes to make sure the aircraft is ready to fly.
4. Post-Flight Inspection
Post-flight inspections are conducted after a flight to identify any damage or wear caused during the flight. This type of inspection ensures that any issues discovered are dealt with promptly before the aircraft is used again.
5. Phase Inspections
Larger aircraft may undergo phase inspections, which divide the entire inspection process into smaller, more manageable phases. Instead of grounding the aircraft for extended periods, airlines can complete the necessary checks more for older aircraft, increasing the check schedules with time. This method ensures that the aircraft remains operational while still adhering to safety regulations.
6. Special Inspections
Special inspections are carried out in response to specific events, such as hard landings, lightning strikes, or bird strikes. These inspections ensure that the aircraft has not sustained any damage from the event and is safe to fly.
Aircraft Inspection Checklist
An aircraft inspection checklist is a detailed document list used by mechanics and inspectors to ensure that every component of the aircraft is thoroughly examined. Normally, a checklist is lined with the following must-do inspections.
✔ Fuselage and Wings–Inspect for cracks, corrosion, and structural integrity.
✔ Landing Gear–Check tyres, brakes, and hydraulic systems.
✔ Engines–Inspect for oil leaks, exhaust systems, and proper functioning.
✔ Avionics–Ensure that communication and navigation systems are working properly.
✔ Control Surfaces–Examine ailerons, elevators, and rudders for proper movement and wear.
✔ Fuel System–Check fuel levels, fuel lines, and filters for any issues.
✔ Emergency Equipment–Ensure that emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers and life vests, is in place and functioning correctly.
Aircraft Inspection Requirements
The aircraft inspection requirements vary depending on the type of aircraft, its usage, manufacturer guidelines, and the regulations of the country in which it operates. In general, all aircraft must undergo regular inspections to maintain their airworthiness. For commercial aircraft, these requirements are more stringent due to the frequency of use and the number of passengers on board.
In Nepal, the Civil Aviation Authority Nepal (CAAN) sets the standards for inspections, and compliance is mandatory for all airlines operating in the country. This includes aircraft annual inspection requirements, as well as more frequent checks for aircraft that are used for passenger transport.
Aircraft Inspection Repair and Alterations
When an inspection reveals defects or damage, repairs are immediately carried out. Depending on the severity of the issue, repairs can range from minor fixes to major overhauls. Once repairs are completed, the aircraft is tested to ensure that the problem has been resolved and that it is safe to return to service.
All aircraft inspection repairs and alterations are documented in an aircraft inspection report, which outlines the issues discovered during the inspection and the corrective actions taken. This report is kept on record to maintain a history of the aircraft’s maintenance.
Conclusion
Regular aircraft inspections are a cornerstone of aviation safety, ensuring that planes remain in top condition and can operate safely. Whether it’s a daily pre-flight check, an annual inspection, or a post-flight review, each process is important in maintaining the airworthiness of an aircraft. By following strict aircraft inspection requirements and keeping thorough aircraft inspection checklists, airlines and maintenance teams can identify potential issues before they lead to more serious problems, making sure local flight is always geared up and ready to take you to your destination safely.
FAQs about Aircraft Inspection
What is a daily inspection of aircraft?
A daily inspection is a routine check carried out every day before an aircraft takes off. It typically involves a visual examination of key components, such as control surfaces, landing gear, and fuel levels, to ensure the aircraft is fit for flight.
What is the most basic inspection program for aircraft?
The most basic inspection program for an aircraft is the pre-flight inspection, which is performed by the pilot before every flight. This quick visual check ensures that the aircraft is safe to fly.
What is the purpose of the flight inspection?
Flight inspections make sure of the continued airworthiness of an aircraft. These inspections check for any issues that could affect the performance or safety of the aircraft.
What is the purpose of aircraft visual inspection?
The purpose of an aircraft visual inspection is to detect any visible damage or wear on the aircraft’s components. This helps identify problems early and prevents more serious issues from developing.