FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Regulations (Part 121)Hard
An FAA POI is reviewing a Part 121 certificate holder's maintenance program. Under 14 CFR 121.373, what system must the certificate holder maintain to continuously monitor and improve its inspection and maintenance program?
- AA Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS)
- BA Minimum Equipment List (MEL)
- CA Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) monitoring program
- DA Safety Management System (SMS) audit only
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. A Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS)
14 CFR 121.373 requires each certificate holder to establish and maintain a Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS) to monitor the performance and effectiveness of its inspection program and program for other maintenance, and to correct any deficiency found. This system provides ongoing quality assurance beyond routine inspections.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The MEL addresses inoperative equipment dispatch relief, not maintenance program surveillance.
- C. RVSM monitoring pertains to altimetry/navigation performance, not general maintenance surveillance.
- D. SMS is a separate broader safety framework; 121.373 specifically mandates CASS.
Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System (121.373)
Required system under Part 121 that continuously monitors maintenance/inspection program effectiveness and corrects deficiencies.
- Required by 14 CFR 121.373
- Monitors inspection and maintenance program performance
- Must identify and correct deficiencies found
Memory trick: CASS keeps watch, catching maintenance cracks before they widen.