How often must aircraft inspections be conducted under FAR Part 43?

Under FAR Part 43, aircraft inspections are required to be conducted at least every 12 months. This is particularly relevant for general aviation aircraft and is often referred to as the annual inspection requirement. Conducting an annual inspection is essential for ensuring the airworthiness of the aircraft, as it involves a thorough examination of the aircraft's systems and components.

This annual requirement helps maintain high safety standards and ensures that any potential issues are identified and rectified, thereby preventing accidents or failures during flight operation. The 12-month interval aligns with the FAA's emphasis on consistent and proactive maintenance practices to enhance aviation safety.

Other choices, such as inspections every 6 months or every 24 months, do not align with the regulations specified in FAR Part 43. Additionally, the notion that inspections are only conducted when defects are noted undermines the proactive maintenance philosophy that aviation safety mandates; regular inspections are necessary to identify and address issues before they escalate into serious problems. Therefore, the correct requirement under FAR Part 43 is for inspections to be conducted at least every 12 months.