Which document certifies the airworthiness of an aircraft?

• A. Registration Certificate
• B. Airworthiness Certificate
• C. Aircraft Maintenance Certificate
• D. Pilot License Card

Answer: (B)

The Airworthiness Certificate is the official FAA document that confirms an aircraft conforms to its approved design and is in a condition for safe operation. It must be displayed in the aircraft, and it remains valid as long as the airplane continues to meet its type design and is maintained according to the required inspections and maintenance rules. This certificate is distinct from the Registration Certificate, which shows who owns the aircraft; from an Aircraft Maintenance Certificate (not a standard formal document for aircraft; maintenance is tracked in logs); and from a Pilot License Card, which is the pilot’s credential. If the aircraft is modified in ways that affect its approved design or fails a required inspection, the airworthiness status can be suspended or revoked.