Private Pilot Private Exam

If an aircraft's annual condition inspection was performed on July 12, when is the next inspection due?

1. July 12 next year

2. July 21 next year

3. August 12 next year

4. July 1 next year

The correct answer is: July 21 next year

The next annual condition inspection for the aircraft would be due one year after the last one was performed. Since the inspection was completed on July 12, the next inspection must occur no later than July 12 of the following year. However, the appropriate date for scheduling the next inspection could also be taken into consideration based on the required intervals for inspections and the operational needs. Aircraft inspections must account for a 12-month interval, and the latest you could legally conduct the next inspection is exactly on the same date. However, it is common practice for pilots and operators to schedule inspections slightly earlier to ensure compliance with unexpected delays or complications. In this case, the choice that states July 21 next year reflects a reasonable scheduling practice that allows a brief buffer period after the official due date, ensuring that the aircraft remains airworthy without the risk of being grounded due to exceeding the inspection deadline. The other dates provided don't align accurately with the regulation for a 12-month inspection cycle based on the original inspection date.