Aircraft safety depends on consistent and reliable maintenance and inspections.
Knowing what to look for can help make sure each inspection meets all requirements and any issues or potential problems are quickly identified.
This guide outlines some key items you must include in every aircraft inspection.
Examine Aircraft Flight Controls & Instruments.
One of the first items to check during an aircraft inspection is the flight controls and instruments.
It’s important to thoroughly examine these components to ensure they are in good working order and functioning correctly.
Be sure to confirm calibrated air pressures, fuel flow and balances, proper operation of relevant systems like the autopilot, tachometer readings, airspeed indicators, compass readings, and other control functions.
Inspect Engine Instrumentation and Emergency Equipment.
As part of an aircraft inspection, engine instrumentation and emergency equipment must be thoroughly checked.
This includes items such as the fuel selection and pressure regulator, fuel flow indicator, oil pressure gauge, tachometer, temperature gauge, screws on cases and other hardware that can become loose or cause potential malfunction when exposed to high temperatures.
Emergency equipment should include emergency batteries, battery packs, fire extinguishers and stowage locations if needed. It’s also important to examine propeller condition for signs of wear or damage.
Check Systems Indications & Fuel Quality.
Every aircraft inspection should include a check of the aircraft’s systems indications, such as displaying the direction and altitude of flight. All fuel tanks should be checked for leakage, contamination and quantity.
Furthermore, the quality of gas needs to be examined for water content according to regulations.
Also test the oil tank for leakage and proper levels, ventilation system for blockages, indicator inlets for foreign object damage if required, and any other items which require manufacturer’s instructions or special testing equipment.
Monitor Aircraft Flight Manuals & Supporting Logs.
The aircraft flight manual is the primary source of information required to operate and maintain an aircraft. It should be monitored constantly during inspections and updated when necessary.
Additionally, supporting documentation such as inspection logs, performance records, weight-and-balance declarations must be checked to ensure accuracy of the manual. It is also essential to take into account any modifications or repairs made to the aircraft since it was originally manufactured.
In this way, you can gain a full understanding of the condition of the aircraft and make any necessary adjustments for safety purposes.
Inspect Propeller, Rotor and Landing Gear Alignment.
Proper alignment of the propeller, rotor and landing gear are essential for safe aircraft operations.
Inspect these components to ensure they are properly aligned with the aircraft’s body, wings and fuselage. Check for any signs of wear or damage, including looseness in the pitching axis and presence of cracks.
Additionally, inspect bolts and nuts for proper torquing, as well as any corrosion or rust that could cause premature wear. Replace any parts that show signs of fatigue or excessive wear to maintain safety standards for flight operations.
Conclusion
In aviation, safety comes first. Aircraft inspections play a crucial role in achieving aircraft and passengers’ safety. Here are the key things to remember;
- Begin your inspection by checking all key control functions and instruments.
- Inspect all engine instruments, emergency equipment and other hardware.
- Do not forget to check the aircraft systems indications and fuel tanks.
- Monitor inspection logs, performance records and weight-and-balance declarations.
- Ensure proper alignment of the propeller, rotor and landing gear. Check for signs of wear or damage.
