GENERAL

General

Remove or open all necessary inspection plates, access doors, fairings, and cowlings. Clean the aircraft and aircraft engine as required.

Lubrication/servicing

Lubricate and replenish fluids in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.

Markings

Check that side and underwing registration markings are correct. If applicable, check that an exemption for alternate display is approved. Identification plate for national aviation authority (NAA)-registered aircraft is present, as well as other identification markings on fuselage in accordance with local (national) rules.

Weighing

Review weighing record to establish accuracy against installed equipment.

Weigh the aircraft as required by Part-NCO or Part-SPO, as applicable.

Service life limits

Check the records that the service life limits and airworthiness limits are within the life time limits of the maintenance programme.

Software

Check for updated software/firmware status and databases for engine and equipment.

AIRFRAME

Fabric and skin

Inspect for deterioration, distortion, other evidence of failure, and defective or insecure attachment of fittings.

NOTE: When checking composite structures, check for signs of impact or pressure damage that may indicate underlying damage.

Fuselage structure

Check frames, formers, tubular structure, braces, and attachments. Inspect for signs of corrosion and cracks.

Systems and components

Inspect for improper installation, apparent defects, and unsatisfactory operation.

Pitot-static system

Inspect for security, damage, cleanliness, and condition. Drain any water from condensation drains.

General

Inspect for lack of cleanliness and loose equipment that may foul the controls.

Tow hooks

Inspect for condition of moving parts and wear.

Check service life.

Carry out operational test.

CABIN AND COCKPIT

Seats, safety belts and harnesses

Inspect for poor condition and apparent defects.

Check for service life.

Windows, canopies and windshields

Inspect for deterioration and damage, and for function of emergency jettison.

Instrument panel assemblies

Inspect for poor condition, mounting, marking, and (where practicable) improper operation.

Check markings of instruments in accordance with the flight manual.

Flight and engine controls

Inspect for improper installation and improper operation.

Speed/weight/manoeuvre placard

Check that the placard is correct and legible, and accurately reflects the status of the aircraft.

All systems

Inspect for improper installation, poor general condition, apparent and obvious defects, and insecurity of attachment.

LANDING GEAR

Shock-absorbing devices

Inspect for improper oleo fluid level.

Inspect for wear and deformation of rubber pads, bungees, and springs.

All units

Inspect for poor condition and insecurity of attachment, including the related structure.

Retracting and locking mechanism

Inspect mechanism. Operational check.

Linkages, trusses and members

Inspect for undue or excessive wear fatigue and distortion.

Steering

Inspect the nose/tail wheel steering for proper function and wear.

Hydraulic lines

Inspect for leakage.

Check condition and replace if necessary.

Electrical system

Inspect for chafing. Operational check of switches.

Wheels

Inspect for cracks, defects, and condition of bearings.

Tires

Inspect for wear and cuts.

Brakes

Inspect for improper adjustment and wear.

Carry out operational test.

Floats and skis

Inspect for insecure attachment and apparent defects.

WING AND CENTRE SECTION

All components

Inspect all components of the wing and centre section assembly for poor general condition, fabric or skin deterioration, distortion, evidence of failure and insecurity of attachment.

Connections

Inspect main connections (e.g. between wings, fuselage, wing tips) for proper fit, play within tolerances, wear or corrosion on bolts and bushings.

FLIGHT CONTROLS

Control circuit/stops

Inspect control rods and cables. Check that the control primary stops are secure and make contact.

Control surfaces

Inspect aileron, flap, elevator, air brake and rudder assemblies, hinges, control connections, springs/bungees, tapes and seals.

Check full range of motion and free play.

Trim systems

Inspect trim surfaces, controls, and connections.

Check full range of motion.

EMPENNAGE

All components and systems

Inspect all components and systems that make up the complete empennage assembly for poor general condition, fabric or skin deterioration, distortion, evidence of failure, insecure attachment, improper component installation, and improper component operation.

AVIONICS AND ELECTRICS

Batteries

Inspect for improper installation, improper charge, spillage and corrosion.

Radio and electronic equipment

Inspect for improper installation and insecure mounting.

Carry out ground function test.

Wiring and conduits

Inspect for improper routing, insecure mounting, and obvious defects.

Bonding and shielding

Inspect for improper installation, poor condition, chafing and wear of insulation.

Antennas

Inspect for poor condition, insecure mounting, and improper operation.

Lights

Operational check of the interior, exterior and instrument lightning

POWER PLANT (OTHER THAN TURBOPROP ENGINE)

Engine section

Inspect for visual evidence of oil, fuel or hydraulic leaks and sources of such leaks.

Studs and nuts

Inspect for looseness, signs of rotation and obvious defects.

Internal engine

Inspect for proper cylinder compression (record measures for each cylinder) and for metal particles or foreign matter in oil filter, screens and sump drain plugs.

Engine mounts

Inspect for cracks, looseness of mounting, and looseness of the engine to the engine-mount attachment.

Flexible vibration dampeners

Inspect for poor condition and deterioration.

Engine controls

Inspect for defects, improper travel, and improper safe tying.

Lines, hoses and clamps

Inspect for leaks, improper condition, and looseness.

Exhaust stacks

Inspect for cracks, defects, and improper attachment.

Turbocharger and intercooler

Inspect for leaks, improper condition, and looseness of connections and fittings.

Check MP controller or density controller for leakage and free movement of controls.

Check waste gate or overpressure relief valve for free movements.

Heating

Inspect cabin heating heat exchanger for improper condition and function. For exhaust heat exchanger, check CO (Carbon Monoxide) concentration.

Liquid cooling systems

Inspect for leaks and proper fluid level.

Electronic engine control

Inspect for signs of chafing, and proper electronics and sensor installation.

Accessories

Inspect for apparent defects in security of mounting.

All systems

Inspect for improper installation, poor general condition, defects and insecure attachment.

Cowling

Inspect for cracks and defects.

Check cowling flaps.

Cooling baffles and seals

Inspect for defects, improper attachment, and wear.

TURBOPROP ENGINE

Incoming power check

Perform in accordance with the graphs found in the engine maintenance manual (EMM).

Inertial separator

Functional check

Engine cowling

Remove, inspect for damage.

General condition

Inspect for oil, fuel, bleed-air or other leaks.

1st stage compressor blades

Remove screen, check for foreign object debris (FOD) or other damage.

P3 filter

Replace

Oil filter

Inspection and cleaning

Fuel low pressure filter

Replace

Fuel high pressure filter

Inspection and cleaning

Oil scavenge filter

Inspection and cleaning

Chip detector

Inspection and cleaning

Exhaust duct

Inspection

Starter/generator brushes

Inspection for proper length

Ignitor/glow plugs

Functional check

Overspeed governor

Inspect for oil leaks.

Governor and beta-valve

Inspect for oil leaks or binding of controls.

Propeller

Inspect blades for damage and hub leaks.

(if installed) fire detector loop or sense module

Functional check

Engine cowling

Install

Power check

Perform in accordance with the graphs found in the EMM, record values.

Oil level

Check within 10 minutes after shutdown.

FUEL

Fuel tanks

Inspect for leaks and improper installation and connection.

Verify proper sealing and function of tank drains.

CLUTCHES AND GEARBOXES

Filters, screens, and chip detectors

Inspect for metal particles and foreign matter.

Exterior

Inspect for oil leaks.

Output shaft

Inspect for excessive bearings’ play and condition.

PROPELLER

Propeller assembly

Inspect for cracks, nicks, binds, and oil leakage.

Propeller bolts

Inspect for proper installation, looseness, signs of rotation, and lack of safe tying.

Propeller control mechanism

Inspect for improper operation, insecure mounting, and restricted travel.

Anti-icing devices

Inspect for improper operation and obvious defects.

MISCELLANEOUS

Ballistic rescue system

Inspect for proper installation, unbroken activation mechanism, proper securing while on ground, validity of inspection periods of pyrotechnic devices, and parachute-packing intervals.

Other miscellaneous items

Inspect installed miscellaneous items that are not otherwise covered by this listing for improper installation and improper operation.

OPERATIONAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHECKS

Power and revolutions per minute (rpm)

Check that power output, static and idle rpm are within published limits.

Magnetos

Check for normal function.

Fuel and oil pressure

Check that they are within normal values. Check fuel pumps for proper operation.

Engine temperatures

Check that they are within normal values.

Engine

For engines equipped with automated engine control (e.g. FADEC), perform the published run-up procedure and check for discrepancies.

Engine

For dry-sump engines, engines with turbochargers and liquid-cooled engines, check for signs of disturbed fluid circulation.

Pitot-static system

Perform functional check.

Transponder

Perform operational check.

Ice protection

Perform operational check of ice protection system.

Fuel quantity indication

Check the fuel quantity indication for proper indication.

Caution and warning

Operational check of cautions and warnings lights.

GENERAL

General — all tasks

The aircraft must be clean prior to inspection. Inspect for security, damage, wear, integrity, whether drain/vent holes are clear, for signs of overheating, leaks, chafing, cleanliness and condition, as appropriate to the particular task. Whilst checking composite structures, check for signs of impact or pressure damage that may indicate underlying damage.

Lubrication/servicing

Lubricate and replenish fluids in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.

Markings

Check that side and underwing registration markings are correct. If applicable, check that an exemption for alternate display is approved, if identification plate for NAA-registered aircraft is present, and if other identification markings on fuselage are in accordance with local (national) rules.

Weighing

Review weighing record to establish accuracy against installed equipment.

Weigh the aircraft as required by the relevant Regulation for air operations.

AIRFRAME

Fuselage paint/gel coat

Inspect external surface and fairings, gel coat, fabric covering or metal skin, and paintwork.

Fuselage structure

Check frames, formers, tubular structure, skin, and attachments. Inspect for signs of corrosion on tubular framework.

Nose fairing

Inspect for evidence of impact with ground or objects.

Release hook(s)

Inspect nose and centre of gravity, release hooks and controls. Check operational life. Carry out operational test. If more than one release hook or control is fitted, check operation of all release hooks from all positions.

Pitot/ventilator

Check alignment of probe, check operation of ventilator.

Pitot-static system

Inspect pitot probes, static ports, and all tubing (as accessible) for security, damage, cleanliness, and condition. Drain any water from condensate drains.

Bonding/vents drains

Check all bonding leads and straps. Check that all vents and drains are clear from debris.

CABIN AND COCKPIT

Cleanliness/loose articles

Check under cockpit floor/seat pan and in rear fuselage for debris and foreign items.

Canopy, locks and jettison

Inspect canopy, canopy frame and transparencies for cracks, unacceptable distortion, and discolouration. Check operation of all locks and catches. Carry out an operational test of the canopy jettison system from all positions.

Seat/cockpit floor

Inspect seat(s). Check that all loose cushions are correctly installed and, as appropriate, that energy-absorbing foam cushions are fitted correctly. Ensure that all seat adjusters fit and lock correctly.

Harness(es)

Inspect all harnesses for condition, and wear of all fastenings, webbing, and fittings. Check operation of release and adjustments.

Rudder pedal assemblies

Inspect rudder pedal assemblies and adjusters. Inspect cables for wear and damage.

Instrument panel assemblies

Inspect instrument panel and all instruments/equipment. Check if instrument readings are consistent with ambient conditions. Check marking of all switches, circuit breakers, and fuses. Check operation of all installed equipment, as possible in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check markings of instruments in accordance with the aircraft flight manual (AFM).

Oxygen system

Inspect oxygen system. Check bottle hydrostatic-test date expiry in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Ensure that oxygen installation is recorded on weight and centre-of-gravity schedule.

CAUTION: OBSERVE ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

Colour-coding of controls

Ensure that controls are colour-coded in accordance with the AFM and in good condition.

Placards

Check that the placards are correct and legible, and accurately reflect the status of the aircraft in accordance with the AFM.

LANDING GEAR

Front skid/nose wheel and mounts

Inspect for evidence of hard/heavy landings. Check skid wear. Inspect wheel, tyre, and wheel box. Check tyre pressure.

Main wheel and brake assembly

Check for integrity of hydraulic seals and leaks in pipework. Check life of hydraulic hoses and components, if specified by the manufacturer. Remove brake drums, check brake lining wear. Check disk/drum wear. Refit drum. Check brake adjustment.

CAUTION: BRAKE DUST MAY CONTAIN ASBESTOS.

Check operation of brake. Check level of brake fluid and replenish, if necessary. Check tyre pressure.

CAUTION: CHECK TYPE OF BRAKE FLUID USED AND OBSERVE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

Undercarriage suspension

Check springs, bungees, shock absorbers, and attachments. Check for signs of damage.

Service strut, if applicable.

Undercarriage retract system and doors

Check retraction mechanism and controls, warning system if fitted, gas struts, doors and linkages/springs, over-centre/locking device. Perform retraction test.

Tail skid/wheel

Inspect for evidence of hard/heavy landings. Check skid wear. Inspect wheel, tyre, and wheel box. Check bond of bonded skids. Check tyre pressure.

Wheel brake control circuit

Inspect wheel brake control rods/cables. If combined with air brake, ensure correct rigging relationship. Check parking-brake operation, if fitted.

WING AND CENTRE SECTION

Centre section

Inspect wing centre section including fairings for security, damage, and condition.

Wing attachments

Inspect the structural attachments of the wing. Check for damage, wear, and security. Check for rigging damage. Check condition of wing attachment pins and wing main bolts.

Winglet/wing extensions

Inspect the structural attachments of winglet and wing attachments. Check for damage, wear, and security.

Aileron control circuit/stops

Inspect aileron control rods/cables. Check that control stops are secure and make contact.

Inspect connecting control devices for security, damage, free play and secure mounting.

Air brake control circuit

Inspect air brake control rods/cables. Check friction/locking device (if fitted). Inspect connecting control devices for security, damage, free play and secure mounting. Inspect air brake locking for proper adjustment and positive locking.

Wing struts/wires

Inspect struts for damage and internal corrosion. Re-inhibit struts internally every 3 years or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Wings including underside registration markings

Check mainplane structure externally and internally, as far as possible. Check gel coat, fabric covering, or metal skin.

Ailerons and controls

Inspect aileron and flaperon assemblies, hinges, control connections, springs/bungees, tapes, and seals. Ensure that seals do not impair the full range of movement.

Air brakes/spoilers

Inspect air brake/spoiler panel(s) operating rods, closure springs, and friction devices, as fitted.

Flaps

Check flap system and control. Inspect connecting control devices.

Control deflections and free play, and record them on worksheets

Check and record range of movements and cable tensions, if specified, and check free play.

EMPENNAGE

Tailplane and elevator

With tailplane de-rigged, check tailplane and attachments, self-connecting and manual control connections. Check gel coat, fabric covering, or metal skin.

Rudder

Check rudder assembly, hinges, attachments, balance weights.

Rudder control circuit/stops

Inspect rudder control rods/cables. Check that control stops are secure and make contact. Pay particular attention to wear and security of liners and cables in ‘S’ tubes.

Elevator control circuit/stops

Inspect elevator control rods/cables. Check that control stops are secure and make contact.

Inspect self-connecting control devices.

Trimmer control circuit

Inspect trimmer control rods/cables. Check friction/locking device. Inspect trim indication for proper adjustment and function.

Control deflections and free play, and record them on worksheets

Check and record range of movements and cable tensions, if specified, and check free play.

AVIONICS AND ELECTRICS

Electrical installation/fuses

Check all electrical wiring for condition. Check for signs of overheating and poor connections. Check fuses/trips for condition and correct rating.

Battery security and corrosion

Check battery mounting for security and operation of clamp. Check for evidence of electrolyte spillage and corrosion. Check that battery has correct main fuse fitted.

It is recommended to carry out battery capacity test on gliders equipped with radio, used for cross-country, controlled airspace, or competition flying.

Radio installations and placards

Check radio installation, microphones, speakers and intercom, if fitted. Check that a call sign placard is installed. Carry out ground function test. Record radio type fitted.

Air speed indicator

Carry out a pitot static leak check and functional check of the airspeed indicator. In case of indications of malfunctions, carry out an airspeed indicator calibration check.

Altimeter datum

Check barometric subscale by altimeter QNH reading.

Pitot-static system

Perform pitot static leak check, inspect hoses for condition, operational check.

Transponder

Perform operational check.

MISCELLANEOUS

Removable ballast

Check removable ballast mountings and securing devices (including fin ballast, if applicable) for condition. Check that ballast weights are painted with conspicuous colour. Check that provision for the ballast is made on the loading placard.

Drag chute and controls

Inspect chute, packing and release mechanism. Check packing intervals.

Water ballast system

Check water ballast system, wing and tail tanks, as fitted. Check filling points, level indicators, vents, dump and frost drains for operation and leakage. If loose bladders are used, check for leakage and expiry date, as applicable.

POWER PLANT (when applicable)

NOTE: In the case of sailplanes with electrical or jet engines, follow the maintenance instructions and recommendations of the DAH.

Engine pylons and mountings

Inspect engine and pylon installation. Check engine compartment and fire sealing.

Gas strut

Check gas strut.

Pylon/engine stops

Check limit stops on retractable pylons. Check restraint cables.

Electric actuator

Inspect electric actuator, motor, spindle drive, and mountings.

Electrical wiring

Inspect all electrical wiring. Pay special attention to wiring that is subject to bending during extension and retraction of engine/pylon.

Limit switches

Check operation of all limit switches and strike plates. Make sure that they are not damaged by impact.

Fuel tank(s)

Check fuel tank mountings and tank integrity. Check fuel quantity indication system, if fitted.

Fuel pipes and vents

Check all fuel pipes, especially those subject to bending during extension and retraction of engine/pylon. Check that vents are clear. Make sure that overboard drains do not drain into engine compartment. Check self-sealing.

Fuel cock or shut-off valve

Check operation of fuel cock or shut-off valve and indications.

Fuel pumps and filters

Clean or replace filters, as recommended by manufacturer. Check operation of fuel pumps for engine supply or tank replenishment. Check fuel pump controls and indications.

Decompression valve

Inspect decompression valve and operating control.

Ignition

Inspect ignition system including spark plugs, distributor and cables for condition and damage. Inspect low-tension and high-tension wiring, connectors, spark plug caps. Check magneto-to-engine timing.

Propeller

Inspect propeller, hub, folding mechanism, brake, pitch change mechanism, stow sensors. Inspect propeller control for function and condition.

Doors

Check engine compartment doors, operating cables, rods, and cams.

Safety springs

Check all safety and counterbalance springs.

Extension and retraction

Check that extension and retraction operation times are within the limits specified by the manufacturer. Check light indications and interlocks for correct operation.

Exhaust

Inspect exhaust system, silencer, shock mounts, and links.

Engine installation

Inspect engine and all accessories.

Carry out compression test and record results (for piston engines).

Compression test results:

No 1 (left/front); and

No 2 (right/rear).

Lubrication

Change engine oil and filter. Replenish oil and additive tanks.

Engine instruments

Inspect all engine instruments and controls. Check control unit, mounts, bonding and connections. Carry out internal self-test, if fitted.

Engine battery

If separate from airframe battery, inspect battery and mountings. If main fuse is fitted, check rating and condition.

Engine battery capacity test

Carry out capacity test. Refer to appropriate manual or guidance.

Placards

Check that all placards are in accordance with the AFM and legible.

Oil and fuel leaks

With the engine fully serviced, check the fuel and oil system for leaks.

Identification (type/serial number/registration plate)

Check for presence.

Crown ring

Inspect for damage/corrosion.

Crown line

Inspect for damage, wear, security of attachment. Check correct length.

Vertical-/horizontal-load tapes

Inspect joints with the crown ring, top of the envelope and wires. Inspect that all load tapes are undamaged along their entire length. Inspect base horizontal tape and edge of the envelope top. Inspect joint between base horizontal-load tape and vertical-load tapes.

Envelope fabric

Inspect the envelope fabric panels (including parachute and rotation vents, if fitted) for damage, porosity overheating or weakness. Unrepaired damage is within tolerance provided for by the manufacturer.

If substantial fabric porosity is suspected, a flight test should be performed, but only after a grab test has demonstrated that the balloon is safe to fly.

Perform grab test in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Flying cables

Inspect for damage (particularly heat damage).

Karabiners

Inspect for damage/corrosion. Operational check of karabiner lock.

Melting link and ‘tempilabel’

Check and record maximum temperature indication (flag/tempilabel).

Control lines and attachments

Inspect for damage wear, security of knots.

Check proper length. Check lines attachments for damage, wear, security.

Envelope pulleys/guide rings

Inspect for damage, wear, free running, contamination, security of attachment.

Identification (type/serial number)

Check for presence and verify type/serial number installed.

Burner frame

Inspect welds for cracking.

Inspect tubes for distortion/deformation/cuts/gouges.

Inspect frame for security of fasteners (heat shields, flexi-corners).

Inspect frame lugs for wear and cracking.

Inspect general condition (corrosion, heat shields).

Gimballing

Operational check of stiffness and security of fasteners.

Leak check

Perform leak check of the burner.

Fuel hoses including manifolds

Inspect all hoses for wear, damage, leakage and service life limitations. Inspect O-ring seals, lubricate/replace as required.

Pressure gauges

Check that the pressure gauge reads correctly, and that lens is present.

Pilot valves/flame

Check shut-off, free movement, correct function, and lubricate if necessary.

Whisper valves/flame

Check shut-off, free movement, correct function, and lubricate if necessary.

Main valves/flame

Check shut-off, free movement, correct function, and lubricate if necessary.

Coils

Check for damage, distortion, security of fasteners. Inspect welds for cracking.

Check security of jets. Tighten or replace, as necessary.

Identification (type/serial number)

Check for presence.

Basket walls

Check the general condition of the basket walls. Inspect weave for damage, cracks/holes. Check for no sharp objects inside the basket.

Basket wires

Inspect for damage, check swaging and eye rings (thimbles).

Karabiners

Inspect for damage/corrosion. Operational check of karabiner lock.

Basket floor

Inspect for damage and cracks.

Runners

Inspect for damage, security of attachment.

Rawhide

Inspect for damage, wear and attachments to the floor.

Rope handles

Inspect for damage, security of attachment.

Cylinder straps

Inspect for damage, deterioration, approved type fitted.

Padded basket edge trim

Inspect for damage and wear.

Burner support rods

Inspect for damage, wear and cracking.

Padded burner support rod covers

Inspect for damage and wear.

Basket equipment

Check presence and functionality.

Pilot restraint and anchor

Inspect for security and condition.

Fire extinguisher

Check expiration date and protection cover.

First aid kit

Check for completeness and expiration date.

Identification (type/serial number)

Check for presence.

Cylinder

Check if periodic inspections for each cylinder are valid (date) (e.g. 10 years’ inspection).

Cylinder body

Inspect for damage, corrosion.

Liquid valve

Inspect for damage, corrosion, correct operation.

Inspect O-ring seals, lubricate/replace as required.

Fixed liquid

Level gauge

Inspect for damage, corrosion, correct operation.

Contents

Gauge

Inspect for damage, corrosion, freedom of movement.

Vapour valve

Inspect for damage, corrosion, correct operation (including regulator).

Check quick-release coupling for correct operation, sealing.

Padded cover

Inspect for damage. Check for correct thickness.

Pressure relief valve

Inspect for contamination, corrosion. Check service life limit.

Assembly

Inspect, and test for leaks all pressure-holding joints using leak detector.

Perform functional test

Instruments

Perform functional check.

Quick release

Perform functional check and inspect the condition of the latch, bridle and ropes for wear and deterioration. Check that the karabiners are undamaged and operate correctly.

Communication/navigation equipment (radio)

Perform operational check.

Transponder

Perform operational check.