Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

What should a pilot do when encountering an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for their aircraft?

1. Immediately ground the aircraft

2. Determine if compliance is mandatory based on the AD

3. Consult their mechanic for advice

4. Ignore it if the aircraft seems operational

The correct answer is: Determine if compliance is mandatory based on the AD

When a pilot encounters an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for their aircraft, the appropriate action is to determine if compliance is mandatory based on the AD. This is critical because ADs are issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to address safety issues affecting aircraft. Each AD specifies the required actions, timelines, and circumstances that must be followed to ensure the continued airworthiness of the aircraft. It's essential for pilots to carefully evaluate the AD and understand whether it pertains to their specific aircraft model and how urgently compliance is required. If the directive mandates certain actions, the pilot must adhere to these requirements to maintain the safety and legality of flight operations. This step ensures that the aircraft remains in compliance with federal regulations and is safe to operate. Consultation with a mechanic or other aviation professionals may be part of the process, but the initial responsibility lies with the pilot to evaluate the AD and its requirements for their aircraft. Ignoring the AD or grounding the aircraft without further assessment could lead to operational risks or legal issues. Therefore, understanding the AD is a fundamental responsibility for pilots to ensure ongoing safety and compliance in aviation operations.