How long is the applicable period for scheduling recurring Airworthiness Directives (ADs)?

How long is the applicable period for scheduling recurring Airworthiness Directives (ADs)?

• A. As determined by the manufacturer
• B. Only during annual inspections
• C. According to the FAA approved maintenance manual
• D. Based on the date noted in the records

Answer: (D)

The correct choice relates to the importance of maintaining accurate records in tracking the application of Airworthiness Directives (ADs). The applicable period for scheduling recurring ADs is determined by the date noted in the aircraft's records. This allows for proper compliance with the directives, ensuring that the required inspections, modifications, or repairs are carried out within the specified timeframe. By referencing the date in the maintenance records, aircraft owners and operators can establish a clear timeline for when each AD must be addressed, helping maintain the airworthiness of the aircraft. This method emphasizes the necessity of keeping comprehensive and organized records as a critical part of aviation safety and compliance. The other options present different approaches that do not guarantee the accuracy or compliance needed for AD management. For instance, relying solely on the manufacturer might lead to inconsistencies if the manufacturer’s definitions of compliance timelines aren’t kept updated in line with FAA rules. Similarly, limiting compliance to only during annual inspections ignores the ongoing nature of AD requirements and could overlook directives that are due at different times. Lastly, while the FAA-approved maintenance manual is a crucial document, it does not directly establish the boundaries for recurring ADs; the specific records detailing when each AD was last completed serve this essential function.

The correct choice relates to the importance of maintaining accurate records in tracking the application of Airworthiness Directives (ADs). The applicable period for scheduling recurring ADs is determined by the date noted in the aircraft's records. This allows for proper compliance with the directives, ensuring that the required inspections, modifications, or repairs are carried out within the specified timeframe.

By referencing the date in the maintenance records, aircraft owners and operators can establish a clear timeline for when each AD must be addressed, helping maintain the airworthiness of the aircraft. This method emphasizes the necessity of keeping comprehensive and organized records as a critical part of aviation safety and compliance.

The other options present different approaches that do not guarantee the accuracy or compliance needed for AD management. For instance, relying solely on the manufacturer might lead to inconsistencies if the manufacturer’s definitions of compliance timelines aren’t kept updated in line with FAA rules. Similarly, limiting compliance to only during annual inspections ignores the ongoing nature of AD requirements and could overlook directives that are due at different times. Lastly, while the FAA-approved maintenance manual is a crucial document, it does not directly establish the boundaries for recurring ADs; the specific records detailing when each AD was last completed serve this essential function.