An operator wants to use a progressive inspection program instead of the standard annual/100-hour inspection schedule for a fleet aircraft. Which statement about progressive inspections under 14 CFR 91.409(d) is correct?
- AIt can only be used on aircraft with a maximum gross weight over 12,500 pounds
- BIt eliminates the need for any FAA-approved inspection program
- CIt allows the aircraft's inspection to be divided into smaller segments performed at set intervals so the entire aircraft is inspected within a set period, typically 12 months
- DIt requires the entire aircraft be inspected every 25 flight hours with no exceptions
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. It allows the aircraft's inspection to be divided into smaller segments performed at set intervals so the entire aircraft is inspected within a set period, typically 12 months
A progressive inspection program, authorized under 91.409(d), divides a complete aircraft inspection into a series of smaller inspections performed at regular intervals (often based on flight hours or calendar time) so that the whole aircraft receives an inspection equivalent to an annual within a set cycle, typically completing within 12 calendar months.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Progressive inspections are not restricted to aircraft over 12,500 pounds; any operator may request approval
- B. The operator must still have an FAA-approved progressive inspection program in place
- D. The 25-hour figure is not a fixed universal requirement; intervals are set by the approved program
Progressive Inspection Program
An FAA-approved inspection program under 14 CFR 91.409(d) that divides the total annual inspection workload into smaller segments performed at scheduled intervals, ensuring the entire aircraft is inspected within a set cycle.
- Must be approved by the FAA before use
- Allows continuous operation without a single large annual inspection downtime
- Total inspection of all items must be completed within the approved cycle, commonly 12 months
Memory trick: Progressive inspections nibble the annual bit by bit instead of one big bite