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Exceeding a progressive inspection interval en route

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 10 of 12 on Airframe Inspection. ACS element AM.II.D.K7 · difficulty: applied. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONAn aircraft on a progressive inspection program is en route when a routine inspection interval comes due, and the aircraft will be about 8 hours past that interval when it reaches its home station. May the flight continue?

  1. ANo, the inspection must be completed before further flight
  2. BYes, but only if the local FSDO is notified in writing
  3. CYes, the interval may be exceeded by up to 10 hours
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Yes, the interval may be exceeded by up to 10 hours

  • A — incorrect The progressive inspection program expressly provides for exceeding an interval while en route within a stated limit.
  • B — incorrect Written notification to the FSDO is required when a progressive inspection program is discontinued, not to use the en route allowance.
  • C — correct The inspection procedures manual must contain instructions for exceeding an inspection interval by not more than 10 hours while en route, so 8 hours is within that allowance.

BACKGROUND

A progressive inspection program may be used under 14 CFR part 91, § 91.409(d), as an alternative to the annual inspection, and it requires a written request to the local FAA Flight Standards District Office. The program must name a mechanic holding an inspection authorization, a certificated airframe repair station, or the manufacturer to supervise or conduct the inspection, and it must have a current inspection procedures manual. That manual must contain an inspection schedule stating the intervals in hours or days for routine and detailed inspections, including instructions for exceeding an inspection interval by not more than 10 hours while en route and for changing an interval because of service experience. The frequency and detail must provide for complete inspection of the aircraft within each 12 calendar months, and the schedule must ensure the aircraft is airworthy at all times.

STUDY TIP

Read progressive inspection questions for two numbers: the 10-hour en route allowance and the 12 calendar month complete-inspection cycle. Do not confuse the en route allowance with the written notice required on discontinuance.

KEY POINTS

  • Progressive inspection is an alternative to the annual under § 91.409(d).
  • An interval may be exceeded by not more than 10 hours while en route.
  • The program must inspect the whole aircraft within each 12 calendar months.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-31B ch02 "Progressive Inspection"
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MORE ON AIRFRAME INSPECTION

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.