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Start of a progressive inspection

Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice question 6 of 9 on Engine Inspection. ACS element AM.III.C.K2 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONAn aircraft is being placed on a progressive inspection program. Under 14 CFR part 43, what must the person performing the inspection do at the start of the program?

  1. AInspect only the items due that month.
  2. BInspect the engine and propeller in detail.
  3. CInspect the aircraft completely.
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Inspect the aircraft completely.

  • A — incorrect Inspecting only the items that come due on the schedule is how the program runs after the initial inspection, not how it starts.
  • B — incorrect Limiting the initial inspection to the powerplant and propeller falls short of the complete aircraft inspection the rule requires at the start.
  • C — correct Section 43.15(d)(1) requires that, at the start of a progressive inspection system, the person performing the inspection inspect the aircraft completely before the routine and detailed inspections of the schedule begin.

BACKGROUND

A progressive inspection spreads the inspection workload across a schedule instead of concentrating it in one event. Section 43.15(d)(1) requires a complete inspection of the aircraft at the start of a progressive inspection system; only after that initial inspection are the routine and detailed inspections conducted as prescribed in the progressive inspection schedule. The rule defines both kinds of inspection: routine inspections consist of visual examination or check of the appliances, the aircraft, and its components and systems, insofar as practicable without disassembly. Detailed inspections consist of a thorough examination of those same items, with such disassembly as is necessary. For the purposes of that paragraph, the overhaul of a component or system is considered to be a detailed inspection.

STUDY TIP

Remember the sequence: complete inspection first, then the scheduled routine and detailed inspections. Also memorize that an overhaul counts as a detailed inspection.

KEY POINTS

  • A progressive inspection begins with a complete inspection of the aircraft
  • Routine means visual, without disassembly; detailed means thorough, with disassembly
  • Overhaul of a component or system is treated as a detailed inspection

SOURCES

  • 14 CFR 43.15(d)(1)
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MORE ON ENGINE INSPECTION

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-32B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Powerplant, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.