What two elements are used to determine an aircraft's airworthiness prior to flight?

• A. Preflight inspection and review of maintenance records
• B. Pilot experience and medical certificate
• C. Flight plan and weather briefing
• D. ATC clearance and radar contact

Answer: (A)

Airworthiness means the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation and complies with regulations. Before you fly, you need to confirm two things: the actual condition of the airplane and its maintenance history.

A thorough preflight inspection is the hands-on check of the aircraft's state. You look for obvious defects, ensure control surfaces move freely, verify fuel and oil levels, inspect tires and landing gear, and assess the airframe, canopy, and systems for any signs of wear or damage. This immediate, physical check helps you spot issues that could affect flight safety.

At the same time, reviewing maintenance records verifies that the required inspections have been completed, and that there are no outstanding airworthiness directives or overdue services. It confirms that repairs or modifications were properly done and documented, ensuring the aircraft meets the mandated standards for flight.

The other options focus on the pilot or flight planning rather than the aircraft’s condition. Pilot experience and medical certificate relate to the pilot’s qualifications. Flight plan and weather briefing pertain to planning and weather, not whether the aircraft is safe to operate. ATC clearance and radar contact are about airspace and navigation, not airworthiness.