FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

Who is permitted to perform an annual condition inspection on a light sport aircraft?

1. The aircraft manufacturer only

2. A certified mechanic only

3. The owner with FAA approved training

4. Any pilot with experience

The correct answer is: The owner with FAA approved training

The ability for an owner of a light sport aircraft to perform an annual condition inspection, provided they have FAA-approved training, is based on the regulations governing light sport aircraft. Specifically, the FAA allows individuals who hold a valid driver's license and have received training on the condition inspection process to conduct the inspection themselves, which is a unique flexibility afforded to light sport aircraft owners. This provision promotes ownership responsibility and encourages mechanical knowledge, ensuring that owners can maintain compliance with safety standards without necessarily requiring a certified mechanic for these specific tasks. It is essential that the training received meets FAA standards, as this ensures that the process is conducted correctly and safely, contributing to the ongoing airworthiness of the aircraft. In contrast, the other choices restrict the ability to perform this inspection to specific groups. The aircraft manufacturer alone lacks the ability to delegate this task to owners or pilots, and while a certified mechanic would typically be involved in maintenance, it is not a requirement for light sport aircraft owners under these regulations. Additionally, any pilot with experience may not meet the necessary training requirements specific to the annual condition inspection, which emphasizes the importance of having documented, FAA-approved training to fulfill this role safely and effectively.