Glossary
Annual Inspection
An FAA-required annual airworthiness inspection that must be completed for an aircraft to remain legally airworthy.
Definition
Under 14 CFR Part 91.409, most general aviation aircraft operating under Part 91 must undergo a complete airworthiness inspection at least once every 12 calendar months. This inspection must be performed by an FAA-certificated A&P mechanic who also holds an Inspection Authorization (IA). After a successful annual inspection, the mechanic signs the aircraft back into airworthy status in the maintenance logbook.
Why it matters in a transaction
An aircraft without a current annual inspection cannot legally be flown (with limited exceptions). When buying an aircraft, the status of the annual inspection affects when you will have your first maintenance cost after purchase. An aircraft with a fresh annual is generally more ready to fly; one with an expired or soon-to-expire annual means you should factor in inspection cost.
What TailExchange can help you see
TailExchange displays annual inspection dates when sellers include them in the listing. This helps you screen for aircraft that are current and ready to fly versus those that will need near-term inspection work.
What TailExchange cannot verify or replace
TailExchange cannot verify annual inspection records, confirm compliance, or certify airworthiness. Logbook review is the authoritative source, and any compliance questions should go to an A&P/IA or aviation attorney.
Related
Airframe Time
Total hours the aircraft structure has been in flight since manufacture or major rebuild.
Prebuy Inspection
An independent mechanical inspection performed by an A&P mechanic before an aircraft purchase.
Prebuy Inspection vs. Annual Inspection
What is the difference between a prebuy inspection and an annual inspection?
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